Rabbit bedding
Good rabbit bedding needs to be absorbent, low in dust, and safe if a rabbit nibbles at it, since most rabbits will chew on their bedding at some point regardless of what it is made from. Below is what to look for, what is worth avoiding, and the bedding range we stock.
What makes a bedding genuinely suitable
Absorbency matters because a hutch or litter area that stays damp is uncomfortable for a rabbit and can contribute to skin and paw problems over time. Dust-extracted bedding is worth prioritising too, since rabbits have sensitive respiratory systems and a dusty bedding can contribute to breathing irritation with prolonged exposure.
Because rabbits chew on bedding as a normal behaviour, it needs to be safe to ingest in small amounts rather than something that could cause a blockage or contain anything toxic. This rules out several materials that might otherwise look practical on the shelf.
Bedding types and how they compare
Paper-based bedding is generally low in dust and reasonably absorbent, making it a common choice for litter trays and hutch flooring alike. Straw is a traditional option that adds some warmth and is safe if nibbled, though it is less absorbent on its own than paper-based products and is often used alongside a more absorbent layer underneath.
Wood shavings vary considerably by type — some are sold specifically as safe, dust-extracted small animal bedding, while untreated shavings from other sources can carry oils or dust that are best avoided for a rabbit's sensitive respiratory system.
What to avoid
Fluffy or fibrous bedding sold for other small pets can pose a risk if a rabbit's feet or claws get caught in it, so it is worth choosing bedding genuinely marketed as suitable for rabbits rather than assuming any small animal bedding will do. Scented or heavily perfumed bedding is also best avoided, since strong fragrances can irritate a rabbit's respiratory system.
Cat litter, particularly clumping varieties, is not suitable for rabbits and should never be used in a hutch or litter tray, since it is not designed to be safe if ingested and can cause a serious blockage if a rabbit eats a meaningful amount.
What we stock
Everything below is in stock with us, priced with delivery worked out, and packed and posted by hand in the UK.
Adjustable Tortoise Harness and Lead
An adjustable harness and lead set sized for tortoises and turtles, for safe garden adventures.
£7.99
Four Flags Quick Ferret Muzzle — Grooming & Handling Aid
A temporary, reliable muzzle designed specifically for ferrets — useful for grooming, medicating, and routine handling.
£14.99
Hamster Exercise Ball
A clear rolling exercise ball that lets your hamster roam and stay active safely around the home, with ventilation slots and a secure lid. Supplied in a random colour.
£7.99
Rabbit No-Rinse Dry-Cleaning Foam
A no-rinse foam that gently cleans and freshens your rabbit's coat between full washes, no water needed.
£7.99
PawHut 12-Panel Small Animal Playpen for Guinea Pigs, 105cm, White
Twelve 45 x 35cm panels and multi-angle connectors that build a 105 x 105cm open pen at 45cm high, for evening floor time with guinea pigs or hedgehogs.
£35.99
Poultry Nappy Harness for Chickens, Ducks & Geese
A washable fabric nappy harness for house poultry, catching droppings to keep your home clean.
From£7.99
Hanging Cage Hammock for Small Pets
A soft sherpa-lined cage hammock that gives small pets a warm, lofted spot to curl up.
From£8.99
Selective Timothy Hay
UK-grown Timothy hay for rabbits and other small animals, for unlimited daily feeding
£9.99
Small Pet Carrier Shoulder Bag with Bubble Window
A ventilated travel carrier bag for hamsters, guinea pigs and other small pets, with a clear bubble window and breathable mesh panels. The adjustable shoulder strap makes outings and vet trips easy.
£13.99
Selective Naturals Woodland Loops
Dandelion and rosehip flavoured loop treats for rabbits, guinea pigs, degus and chinchillas
£3.99
Selective Naturals Orchard Loops
Apple-flavoured loop treats for rabbits, guinea pigs, degus and chinchillas
£3.99
Selective Naturals Meadow Loops
Pea-flavoured loop treats for rabbits, guinea pigs, degus and chinchillas
£3.99
Common questions
- Is it safe for rabbits to chew their bedding?
- Yes, chewing bedding is normal rabbit behaviour, which is exactly why bedding needs to be genuinely safe if ingested in small amounts. Choosing a bedding marketed specifically for rabbits or small animals, rather than a general household product, is the way to make sure of that.
- Can I use cat litter for my rabbit's litter tray?
- No, cat litter, especially clumping varieties, is not suitable for rabbits and should be avoided. It is not designed to be safe if a rabbit nibbles or ingests it, and clumping litter in particular can cause a serious blockage if eaten in any quantity.
- How often should rabbit bedding be changed?
- Litter areas typically need spot-cleaning daily and a fuller change every few days, while hutch bedding is usually refreshed weekly or sooner if it becomes damp or soiled. Checking bedding regularly for dampness is more reliable than sticking to a fixed schedule alone.
- Is straw or wood shavings better for rabbits?
- Both can work well, often combined — straw adds warmth and is safe to nibble, while a dust-extracted, absorbent layer such as paper-based bedding or safe wood shavings underneath helps with moisture control. Choosing bedding genuinely marketed as suitable for small animals is the key point either way.
Related
Written by Matt Garnett, who runs Giddy Pets and is a lifelong pet owner — not a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your animal. How we write these guides.