Softwood Shavings for Small Pet Bedding
By Pet Shop Online | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: Buying Guides
Softwood shavings are a popular small pet bedding choice. Learn when they work well, what to watch for, and how to pick the right option for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and mice.
Quick answer
Softwood shavings are an absorbent, biodegradable bedding option for many small pets, but they aren't ideal for every animal. Choose kiln-dried softwood shavings to minimize aromatic oils that can irritate sensitive respiratory systems.
Key trade-offs with softwood shavings
Softwood shavings are highly absorbent and control odors well, but they naturally contain aromatic phenols that may irritate some small pets' lungs and skin. Kiln-drying reduces these compounds significantly, making them safer. The trade-off is that kiln-dried softwood shavings often cost slightly more than untreated versions.
Rabbits and guinea pigs have more sensitive respiratory tracts than hamsters and mice, so extra caution is needed when choosing bedding for them. If your pet shows sneezing, watery eyes, or scratching, switch to a paper-based or aspen bedding.
How to choose softwood shavings
- Check the processing method: Only buy softwood shavings labeled as kiln-dried or heat-treated. This process lowers the level of aromatic oils, reducing irritation risk. Look for bags that clearly state the drying method.
- Match depth to animal size and activity: Fill the cage to a depth where your pet can burrow comfortably. For rabbits and guinea pigs, aim for 2–3 inches. For hamsters and mice, 1–2 inches is usually enough. Deeper bedding helps control moisture and odors.
- Monitor your pet's reaction: After switching to softwood shavings, watch for signs of discomfort: sneezing, coughing, red eyes, or scratching. If you see any, change to a dust-free paper bedding immediately. When in doubt, start with a small bag to test tolerance before buying in bulk.
Product spotlight
- Wilkinsons Softwood Shavings: Wilkinsons Softwood Shavings are biodegradable, eco-friendly, and have a forest fresh pine scent. They are suitable for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, mice, and other small animals. This option already combines absorbency with a pleasant natural scent, making it a straightforward choice if your pet has no respiratory sensitivity.
Wilkinsons Softwood Shavings
Who should use softwood shavings?
Best for
- Small pet owners who want an affordable, natural, and absorbent bedding with good odor control
- Hamsters and mice (less sensitive to aromatic phenols)
- Owners who can buy kiln-dried softwood shavings from a reliable source
Not ideal for
- Rabbits and guinea pigs with known respiratory sensitivities or a history of respiratory issues
- Any small pet that shows signs of irritation after using softwood bedding
