Paper Bedding vs Wood Shavings for Rabbits: Which Is Best?

Choosing the right bedding is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your rabbit’s health. If you’re comparing paper bedding vs wood shavings for rabbits, you’re already thinking like a responsible bunny parent.

Because rabbits have delicate respiratory systems and sensitive feet, bedding isn’t just about comfort — it directly affects their long-term well-being.

Below, we break down safety, absorbency, odor control, cost, and overall health impact so you can confidently choose the best bedding for your rabbit.

Rabbits spend a significant amount of time in their litter area. That means they’re consistently exposed to:

• Dust particles
• Ammonia from urine
• Natural wood oils
• Moisture buildup

Poor bedding can contribute to:

• Respiratory irritation or sneezing
• Watery eyes
• Unpleasant cage odor
• Sore hocks (inflamed back feet)

The safest rabbit bedding should be:

• Low-dust
• Highly absorbent
• Free from harmful aromatic oils
• Soft and supportive

Paper bedding is typically made from recycled paper materials processed into soft fibers or absorbent pellets. It’s widely recommended for indoor rabbits because of its safety profile.

• ✔ Very low dust — ideal for sensitive lungs
• ✔ Excellent odor control
• ✔ High absorbency
• ✔ Soft and gentle on feet
• ✔ Free from aromatic wood oils

Shop our natural paper rabbit bedding →

• Slightly higher upfront cost
• Needs replacing when fully saturated

For most indoor rabbits, paper bedding offers the safest balance of cleanliness, comfort, and respiratory protection.

Not all wood shavings are created equal. The type of wood matters significantly.

Cedar contains aromatic oils that can irritate a rabbit’s respiratory system and may affect liver enzymes. It is not recommended.

Unkiln-dried pine contains phenols that may be harmful. Kiln-dried pine is safer but still debated among rabbit-experienced veterinarians.

Aspen is generally considered safe because it lacks the harmful aromatic oils found in cedar and pine.

For indoor rabbits, paper bedding is typically the safest and most reliable option. It minimizes dust exposure and offers superior ammonia control — which means cleaner air for your bunny and your home.

If budget is a concern, aspen shavings can be a reasonable alternative — just avoid cedar and non–kiln-dried pine.

At our core, we believe small animals deserve thoughtful, research-backed care. We work closely with experienced rabbit owners and stay informed on current veterinary guidance regarding bedding safety and respiratory health.

We prioritize:

• Natural, low-dust materials
• Safe sourcing practices
• Transparent product information
• Education-first recommendations

Our goal isn’t just to sell bedding — it’s to help you create a healthier environment for your rabbit.

• How to Litter Train a Rabbit
• Rabbit Care Guide
• Signs of Respiratory Issues in Rabbits
• Shop Rabbit Litter

For indoor rabbits, yes. carefresh paper bedding produces less dust and typically controls odor more effectively.

Unkiln-dried pine is not recommended. Kiln-dried pine is safer but still debated among rabbit-focused veterinarians.

carefresh paper bedding and aspen wood shavings are generally considered the safest options.

Spot-clean daily and fully replace bedding 2–3 times per week, depending on absorbency and rabbit size.

If you’re prioritizing long-term health, low dust, and strong odor control, paper bedding is the best overall choice for most rabbits.

Your rabbit relies on you to create a safe, clean environment — and choosing the right bedding is a simple change that makes a big difference.

Explore our natural rabbit bedding options →

• 🌿 Carefully selected natural materials
• 🐰 Designed with rabbit respiratory safety in mind
• 📚 Education-first approach to small animal care
• ♻ Sustainably sourced & responsibly packaged
• 💛 Trusted by thousands of small pet households

Because your rabbit deserves a clean, safe, and comfortable home.