As we humans get older, we have different dietary and health needs from when we were younger- and our dear guinea pigs are the same. This blog will address some of the needs that older guinea pigs require.  A guinea pig is generally considered a senior at 4 years old. And while there is no definitive life span for guinea pigs, it is generally accepted as they will live for 5-7 years. I’ve had guinea pigs that haven’t lived that long and one guinea pig, Snickers, that lived to be just over 9 years old!  While a guinea pigs’ hereditary may have some bearing on your pig’s health, your little friend relies on your help so he (she) can live their life to the fullest, even as they are in their older years.    PERSONALITY AND PHYSICAL CHANGES  Older guinea pigs are less likely to popcorn (jump up and down when walking) and are prone to taking more naps. Because they may spend more time in one place (napping and relaxing), it’s important to check their bedding regularly to make sure there is no excess poop or urine from spending increased time in the same area. Bumblefoot, a painful bacterial condition that can be caused by lying in the same soiled area, is also a possible concern. CAREFRESH bedding is excellent for these situations due to its great absorbance. CAREFRESH also provides a great fluffy base to help deter bumblefoot.  Older pigs are also likely to lose some muscle weight and tone, so it is important to do weight checks more often. Weekly or biweekly is recommended.  Weight checks are best done in grams (or converted to grams from pounds and ounces) as that is the unit of measurement that veterinarians use. It is also very important to do weight checks at the same time of day to ensure consistency and accuracy. There will always be some variance each time, but a weight that is a variance of 30 or more grams from the last weight check is worthy of noting. A more frequent weight check is now recommended. If during the next check more weight is lost, a veterinarian wellness visit would be in order.  It’s not unusual, however, for an older pig to weigh 80-100 grams less than he (she) was around 2-3 years old. HOWEVER, this weight loss would occur over many months, not weeks. For me, Cosmo, who was a tad chubby, has gone from a regular weight of 1270g on average to 1185g on average in the last 10 months, a slow and steady decrease, but that is now the weight he remains at. Bentley, however, has remained essentially the same at 1090g average since adulthood.  Weighing is easy. A standard digital kitchen scale will work and should offer grams in addition to ounces. If your piggy won’t stand still, like mine, simply place them in a hideaway or blanket- but then weigh just the item you used to place the piggy in and deduct its weight from the overall total to get an accurate reading.  Weight is often the easiest way to determine if your guinea pig is having health issues that you can’t detect from any different behavior or looks.   MEDICAL ISSUES  No matter what possible issues you may have concerns with, nothing replaces taking your furry friend to a good veterinarian. If you are noticing your guinea pig is just not eating (or eating very little) you can offer a product like Oxbow’s critical care to help keep food in your pigs' digestive system- absolutely crucial- until you can get to your vet.  Critical care has the proper nutritional to help replace what the guinea pig isn’t getting. Chewy and other popular online retail sites offer critical care. It may be frozen and it is encouraged that EVERY herbivore owner (guinea pigs, rabbits, etc.) always have some for emergencies.  While some health issues are more likely to occur in older guinea pigs, they basically have the same issues and signs/symptoms of younger pigs, but Older pigs are more susceptible to arthritis, dental problems, and cataracts, to name a few.  Guinea pigs also don't do well with temperature swings and drafts, but older ones are especially susceptible so try to limit large temperature variations and make sure their cage or home is not in an area that experiences drafts, especially from outside.  As you may know, a piggy’s teeth never stop growing. Unlimited hay helps keep the teeth worn down, but dental issues tend to increase with age. Signs of tooth issues include drooling, dropping food, smaller and irregular stools, and facial swelling among others.  In females, ovary cysts can be a concern and crusty nipples may offer signs of that problem. A visit to the veterinarian is in order. Spaying at an older age may be risky due to age and general overall health, so a consultation with your veterinarian is in order.  Males are suspect to impaction in the anus. This is when the muscles in the anus weaken over time, and the cecotropes, or more mushy feces that guinea pigs expel, and then will re-ingest because the cecotropes contain undigested vitamins, will tend to get stuck in the anus, which then holds back the ability to expel regular feces.  It’s a relatively easy problem to deal with, but not particularly fun. You’ll basically need to clean the anal area out on a daily basis. Once again, a vet visit to diagnose this problem and to have the vet demonstrate how to clear impacts is highly recommended.  The key word is observe! Always observe your furry one’s behavior and look for anything unusual. Older guinea pigs are prone to painful kidney (calcium) stones and the most likely culprit of that condition is too much calcium in their diet. Consider switching to a pellet that has more fiber and less calcium and protein. Offer less vegetables higher in calcium like dark leafy greens (dandelion, mustard, etc). As always, good quality hay, like timothy, should be available in an unlimited quantity, as should fresh water.   Also watch water intake. If a piggy is drinking more water than usual, it could be a sign of diabetes and/or kidney issues.  OH NO! SO MUCH TO WORRY ABOUT. WHAT TO DO?????  Remember that these are things that older guinea pigs are more likely to experience, but not all will experience them and most, if they do experience any, it will likely be one or two of the issues described above and not all of them.  Currently, neither of my guinea pigs are experiencing any health issues associated with aging. Knock on wood.  Of course, visits to the veterinarian can be pricey. However, if you can set aside, say $5 a week from the time you get your piggy, then by the time a possible serious condition develops later in their life, you will have saved enough to greatly offset any high costs that may be associated with giving your little one the proper care they need. Remember, a guinea pig deserves as much attention, love, and professional medical care as any other pet.  As mentioned before, the most important thing of all is to “observe, observe, observe” your guinea pigs’ behavior. Know what is normal behavior for yours and what is not normal behavior. This can be a great help in getting a headstart on addressing any possible medical issue your cuddly friend may have.  While this blog is simply meant as an introduction and education of some different needs and medical issues to be aware of for your guinea pig as he or she ages and in their senior years, hopefully you will find it helpful as you enjoy your piggies as they grow older.   Guest Post by Craig N. - long time Guinea Pig parent, currently of Bentley and Cosmo (pictured above), and they invite you to follow their antics @ https://www.facebook.com/briochepig  Until next time…. Read Craig's other Blog Posts: Introduction to the many different guinea pig breeds What do Guinea Pigs See and Taste? Plus, Other Common Questions The Ultimate Guinea Pig Diet Guide Interesting History Facts About Guinea Pigs and What You Should Know What Do Guinea Pig Noises Actually Mean? How to Interpret Their Adorab              

Bedding isn’t just “the stuff on the bottom of their home.” For small pets, it’s a 24/7 environmental input that affects breathing, skin, digestion, stress levels, and even how safely they can move around. The right bedding can reduce odor and moisture, support natural behaviors like burrowing and nesting, and help prevent common health problems. The wrong bedding can irritate sensitive airways, create painful sores, or trap ammonia from urine. Below is a practical, species-by-species guide to choosing healthier bedding for hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and rats. Why bedding matters for small pet health Small pets spend most of their lives in close contact with bedding—walking on it, digging through it, sleeping in it, and breathing the air right above it. Three bedding factors drive most health outcomes: Dust level: Fine particles can irritate airways and eyes. Absorbency & ammonia control: Urine breaks down into ammonia, which can inflame lungs and stress the immune system. Texture & safety: Rough or sharp materials can cause foot sores; stringy fibers can tangle or be swallowed. A healthy setup usually includes: Low-dust, high-absorbency bedding like carefresh  Adequate depth for the species Routine spot-cleaning to limit ammonia buildup Safe nesting material (species-appropriate) Hamsters: prioritize burrowing, low dust, and nesting safety Hamsters are burrowers. Bedding affects both their mental wellbeing and physical health. Best bedding for hamsters carefresh Paper-based bedding (low dust) A deep layer to allow tunneling (many owners underestimate depth) Health risks from the wrong bedding Dusty bedding can trigger sneezing, watery eyes, and respiratory irritation. Strongly aromatic softwoods (like some pine/cedar products) may irritate the respiratory system. Fluffy cotton “nesting fluff” can wrap around limbs or be ingested, causing injury or blockage. Hamster bedding tips Give enough depth to burrow and add paper strips for safer nesting. Spot-clean urine areas frequently to prevent odor and ammonia. Guinea pigs: protect sensitive lungs and feet Guinea pigs are prone to respiratory issues and can develop painful foot problems if bedding is damp, rough, or dirty. Best bedding for guinea pigs carefresh Paper-based bedding (low dust) Fleece liners (when properly maintained with absorbent layers beneath) Health risks from the wrong bedding Wet or ammonia-heavy bedding can contribute to respiratory irritation. Rough wood shavings or wire flooring increases risk of sore feet (bumblefoot). Scented bedding can be irritating. Guinea pig bedding tips Keep bedding dry and prioritize frequent spot cleaning, especially in “kitchen” areas. If using fleece, wash on a consistent schedule and ensure moisture isn’t pooling. Rabbits: prevent sore hocks and keep litter areas clean Many rabbits use a litter box, and bedding choices often overlap with litter choices. Rabbits are also vulnerable to foot sores (“sore hocks”) when surfaces are hard, wet, or abrasive. Best bedding/litter for rabbits Paper-based pellets (common for litter boxes) like carefresh Rabbit & Ferret Litter Paper bedding for comfort areas Soft, supportive resting surfaces (mats, rugs, fleece blankets—kept dry) Health risks from the wrong bedding Clumping cat litter can be dangerous if ingested. Dusty materials may irritate airways. Wet bedding can lead to skin irritation and flystrike risk outdoors or in warm climates. Rabbit bedding tips Use a litter box setup that keeps urine contained and reduces contact with wet spots. Provide soft resting areas and keep them dry to protect feet.   Rats: focus on ammonia control and airway health Rats have delicate respiratory systems and are especially sensitive to ammonia buildup. Bedding that doesn’t control odor well can quickly create an unhealthy environment. Best bedding for rats carefresh Paper-based bedding with strong absorbency Kiln-dried aspen (often used successfully if low dust) Hemp bedding (popular for odor control, but choose reputable, low-dust options) Health risks from the wrong bedding High-ammonia environments can worsen chronic respiratory disease. Dusty bedding can trigger snuffling, sneezing, and irritation. Aromatic softwoods may be irritating depending on processing and sensitivity. Rat bedding tips Spot-clean more often than you think you need—rats produce a lot of urine for their size. Ensure strong ventilation (without drafts) and avoid bedding that breaks down into powder. Quick bedding do’s and don’ts Do Choose low-dust bedding such as carefresh Spot-clean daily (or near-daily) in high-traffic pee zones. Keep bedding dry—moisture is a health multiplier for odor, bacteria, and skin issues. Introduce new bedding gradually if your pet is sensitive. Don’t Use cotton fluff nesting for hamsters. Use clumping litter for rabbits (or small pets generally). Assume “natural” or “wood” automatically means safe—processing, dust, and additives matter. FAQs  What bedding is best for hamsters? Low-dust carefresh paper bedding is a common top choice because it supports burrowing and is gentle on airways. Provide deep bedding so hamsters can tunnel safely. What bedding is best for guinea pigs? Low-dust paper bedding is widely recommended for comfort and respiratory friendliness. Fleece liners can also work well if washed frequently and paired with an absorbent underlayer to keep the surface dry. What bedding is best for rabbits? For litter boxes, paper-based pellets are a popular, low-dust option. For lounging areas, provide soft, dry surfaces (blankets, fleece, mats) and avoid dusty or clumping litters. What bedding is best for rats? Rats do best with bedding that controls moisture and ammonia, such as carefresh absorbent paper bedding. The key is keeping ammonia low through bedding choice plus frequent spot cleaning. Can bedding cause respiratory infections in small pets? Bedding itself doesn’t “cause” infections, but dust and ammonia can irritate airways and make pets more vulnerable to respiratory illness. Choosing low-dust, absorbent bedding and cleaning regularly helps reduce risk. Is pine or cedar bedding safe for hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, or rats? Many owners avoid cedar and strongly aromatic softwoods because they can be irritating to sensitive respiratory systems. If you use wood bedding, kiln-dried aspen is often preferred. When in doubt, choose low-dust paper bedding like carefresh. How often should I change small pet bedding? Spot-clean daily and do a fuller change as needed based on odor, dampness, and cage size. As a general rule, smaller enclosures need more frequent changes. If you smell ammonia, your pet has been smelling it longer. What are signs bedding is bothering my pet? Sneezing, watery eyes, noisy breathing, reduced activity, itching, hair loss, red skin, or sore feet can all be clues. Also watch for increased odor and damp bedding—those conditions can quickly worsen health. What bedding should I avoid for small pets? Avoid cotton fluff nesting (especially for hamsters), clumping litter (especially for rabbits), very dusty bedding, and strongly scented products. Also avoid anything that stays wet or feels rough underfoot. Bottom line Bedding is one of the easiest “health upgrades” you can make for small pets. Aim for low dust, high absorbency, and species-appropriate comfort, then pair it with consistent spot-cleaning to keep ammonia low. If you’re choosing one principle to follow: dry + low dust = healthier airways, healthier skin, and a less stressful home.    

Choosing the right bedding for small animals like guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and mice is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet owner. Bedding affects your pet’s comfort, health, odor control, and overall happiness—and not all bedding types are created equal. In this guide, we’ll break down the best bedding options for small animal pets, what to avoid, and how to choose the safest and most comfortable bedding for your furry companion. Why Bedding Matters for Small Animals Small animals spend most of their lives in close contact with their bedding. The right bedding helps: Absorb moisture and control odors Support natural burrowing behaviors Protect sensitive respiratory systems Keep cages clean and hygienic Prevent foot and skin problems Poor-quality or unsafe bedding can lead to respiratory infections, allergies, and discomfort, especially for guinea pigs and hamsters. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Small Animal Bedding 1. Safety and Toxicity Always choose non-toxic, pet-safe bedding such as carefresh paper bedding. Avoid materials treated with chemicals or containing aromatic oils, which can irritate lungs and skin. Avoid: Cedar bedding Pine bedding that is not kiln-dried Bedding with added fragrances or perfumes 2. Absorbency and Odor Control Highly absorbent bedding keeps your pet dry and reduces ammonia buildup from urine. This is especially important for guinea pigs, who urinate frequently. Look for bedding labeled as: High-absorbency Odor-controlling Ammonia-reducing 3. Dust Level Dust can cause respiratory issues, especially in hamsters and guinea pigs. Choose: Low-dust or dust-free bedding Bedding designed specifically for small animals 4. Comfort and Texture Bedding should be soft on paws and allow natural behaviors like nesting and burrowing. Guinea pigs prefer soft, cushioned bedding Hamsters enjoy bedding they can tunnel through Best Bedding Options for Guinea Pigs Guinea pigs have sensitive lungs and feet, so bedding choice is critical. Recommended Options Paper-based bedding (soft, absorbent, low dust) Fleece bedding systems (washable and reusable) Aspen wood shavings (only kiln-dried) Bedding to Avoid Cedar or untreated pine Corn cob bedding (risk of mold and ingestion) Best Bedding Options for Hamsters Hamsters love to dig and burrow, so bedding depth and texture matter. Recommended Options Paper bedding (excellent for burrowing) Aspen shavings Hay mixed with paper bedding for enrichment Aim for 6–10 inches of bedding to allow natural tunneling behavior. Natural vs. Synthetic Bedding: Which Is Better? Natural Bedding Pros: Biodegradable Often better for burrowing Cons: May require more frequent changes Synthetic (Fleece) Bedding Pros: Reusable and eco-friendly over time Soft and comfortable Cons: Requires regular washing Not good for odor control  Not suitable for burrowing animals like hamsters How Often Should You Change Bedding? Guinea pigs: Spot clean daily, full change 1–2 times per week Hamsters: Spot clean every few days, partial change weekly Never replace all bedding at once for hamsters—keeping some familiar scent reduces stress.   FAQs About Small Animal Bedding What is the safest bedding for guinea pigs? Paper-based bedding and fleece liners are considered the safest options due to their low dust levels and high absorbency. Is wood shavings bedding bad for hamsters? Not all wood shavings are bad. Kiln-dried aspen is safe, but cedar and non-treated pine should always be avoided. Can I use cat litter as small animal bedding? No. Cat litter is not designed for small animals and can cause respiratory issues or digestive blockages if ingested. How deep should hamster bedding be? At least 6 inches, but 8–10 inches is ideal for burrowing and enrichment. What bedding is best for odor control? Paper-based bedding is typically the best for odor control, especially for guinea pigs. Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Bedding for Your Small Pet The right bedding can make a huge difference in your small animal’s health, comfort, and quality of life. Always prioritize low dust, high absorbency, and safety over convenience or cost. Whether you’re caring for a guinea pig, hamster, or another small pet, investing in quality bedding is one of the simplest ways to keep them happy and healthy.        

Looking for the best gifts for your small animal pet? Whether you share your home with a hamster, rabbit, or guinea pig, choosing the right enrichment helps keep them happy, active, and healthy. This guide breaks down the top enrichment ideas, accessories, toys, and treats—all optimized to help you find exactly what you need for each species. Why Enrichment Gifts Matter for Small Animals Small pets may be tiny, but their instincts are big. The right gifts can help with: Mental stimulation Natural foraging and chewing behaviors Physical exercise Reducing boredom and stress Giving your pet a new toy or accessory is more than cute—it improves their overall well-being. Best Gifts for Hamsters 1. Interactive Foraging Toys Hamsters love to search for food. Foraging toys encourage natural burrowing and sniffing instincts. 2. Sand Baths A sand bath gift keeps their coat clean and supports healthy grooming habits. 3. Multi-Level Hideouts & Tunnels Wooden hideouts, cork logs, and bendable tunnels offer endless exploring opportunities. 4. Chew Toys (Safe Woods Only) Ideal materials: applewood, aspen, and birch. Chews help file down teeth and prevent boredom. 5. Exercise Wheels (Correct Size) Make sure the wheel is large enough to prevent back arching. A 10–12 inch wheel is best for Syrian hamsters. Best Gifts for Rabbits 1. Rabbit-Safe Chew Toys Rabbits need constant chewing to keep teeth healthy. Look for toys made of hay, willow, seagrass, or untreated wood. 2. Hideaway Houses & Tunnels Perfect for naturally shy rabbits who need spaces to rest and feel secure. 3. Forage Mats & Treat Balls These encourage slow feeding and reduce boredom—great daily enrichment. 4. Snuggle Beds & Soft Mats Bunnies love cozy spaces. Fleece or woven grass mats add comfort and warmth. 5. Large Playpens or Indoor Exercise Pens Gives rabbits safe space to hop, zoom, and stretch—especially important for indoor rabbits. Best Gifts for Guinea Pigs 1. Cozy Hideouts (Fleece or Grass) Guinea pigs rely on hiding spots to feel safe. Tunnel beds and snuggle sacks make great gifts. 2. Chew Toys for Dental Health Timothy hay twists, wooden blocks, and loofah chews are all safe options. 3. Foraging Toys & Treat Puzzles Ideal for mental enrichment and controlled treat-giving. 4. Large Play Mats & Fleece Liners Soft flooring keeps their feet comfortable and encourages more movement. 5. Veggie-Themed Treats (Healthy, Limited) Choose natural treats made from dried vegetables or vitamin C-fortified options. Best Universal Gifts for Any Small Animal These gifts work for hamsters, rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small pets: Timothy hay-based treats Snuffle mats Small pet tunnels Chew sticks or natural wooden toys DIY cardboard enrichment toys Hiding huts Foraging boxes filled with hay and pellets These items support natural behaviors and help keep pets active and engaged. How to Choose the Right Gift When selecting a gift, consider: Species-specific needs (hamsters burrow; rabbits chew more aggressively; guinea pigs need room to run) Size of the toy or accessory Safe materials (avoid painted, scented, or treated wood) Your pet’s activity level and personality Always supervise new toys and replace them when worn. 🧠 Notes & Tips for Pet Owners Chew toys and tunnels are especially beneficial for dental health, because small animals’ teeth grow continuously. Exercise wheels and tunnels help prevent boredom and keep pets physically active — important if they spend most time in a cage. Foraging toys like treat puzzles encourage natural behaviors and mental stimulation, which improves well-being. Always choose pet-safe materials (untreated wood, natural hay, safe plastics) to avoid toxic chemicals or choking hazards. Final Thoughts: Small Gifts, Big Happiness Whether you’re shopping for the holidays, a pet’s birthday, or just because, the best gifts for small pets are ones that improve their daily comfort, enrichment, and natural behaviors. With the right choice, your hamster, rabbit, or guinea pig will enjoy a happier, healthier, more engaging life.    

If you share your home with a bunny, guinea pigs, ferrets, or hamster, you already know—these little pets bring big joy (and sometimes big messes). The secret to keeping them cozy, clean, and your home smelling fresh? Knowing the difference between bedding and litter—and how to use both like a pro. What’s the Difference Between Bedding and Litter? Think of bedding as your pet’s cozy mattress. It’s soft, comfy, and perfect for snuggling, nesting, and lounging. Litter, on the other hand, is the “bathroom zone.” It’s designed for absorption and odor control, usually placed in a corner litter box or a specific potty area. When you use both correctly, you get the best of both worlds—happy pets and easier cleanup. 🐇 Rabbits Rabbits are naturally tidy and can actually be litter trained! Bedding: Use soft, absorbent natural paper bedding in their main living space. Litter: Set up a litter box filled with natural, absorbent paper or wood-based litter such as carefresh Rabbit & Ferret Litter.  🧺 Pro tip: Avoid clay or clumping litters—they can be harmful if your bunny decides to nibble. 🐹 Guinea Pigs & Hamsters These little burrowers love to dig, tunnel, and nap the day away. They need thick, soft bedding that’s gentle on tiny feet and helps control odor. Try natural paper bedding like carefresh®, made from ultra-soft, sustainable paper fiber that stays fresh longer between cleanings. Avoid using litter alone—it’s not comfortable or safe for nesting. 🦦 Ferrets Ferrets are playful and surprisingly clean! Most will pick a corner to go potty, so adding a small litter box is key. Bedding: Soft paper bedding for resting and play. Litter: Dust-free, absorbent litter in their potty area. Place the litter box where your ferret naturally likes to go—it makes training easy! 🌿 Why Natural Materials Matter Your small pet’s lungs (and yours!) will thank you for choosing natural, low-dust materials. Natural paper and wood fiber beddings: Keep the air cleaner Control odor naturally Are compostable and biodegradable That means a happier pet and a greener planet. 🌎 💚 The Perfect Combo For the happiest, healthiest habitat: Bedding for softness and warmth Litter for cleanliness and odor control Your pet will love their cozy, fresh-smelling setup—and you’ll love how easy it is to maintain. Give Them the Comfort They Deserve carefresh® natural paper bedding is made from sustainable, reclaimed paper fiber that’s ultra-soft, super absorbent, and naturally controls odors for up to 10 days. It’s the easiest way to keep your small pet’s home fresh, comfy, and planet-friendly. 🛏️ Learn more at carefresh.com