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.    

Finding an experienced ferret vet near you is essential for your furry friend’s health and happiness. You need someone who understands ferrets’ unique medical needs and has the skills to provide specialized care. It’s not just about proximity; it’s about expertise and trust. There are many factors to ponder, from credentials to communication style. To safeguard your ferret receives the best care possible, you’ll want to explore some effective strategies for locating the perfect vet. Understanding the Importance of Specialized Ferret Care When it comes to the health of your ferret, understanding the importance of specialized care can’t be overstated. Ferrets are unique creatures with distinct needs that differ from other pets. Providing them with a specialized diet is vital, as their high metabolism requires nutrient-rich, protein-heavy foods. This guarantees they maintain their energy levels and overall well-being. Additionally, proper grooming techniques are essential to keeping your ferret healthy and comfortable. Regular grooming helps prevent fur matting and reduces the risk of hairballs, which can lead to serious health issues. By focusing on these specialized care aspects, you’re not just meeting your ferret’s basic needs, but also enhancing their quality of life, ensuring a happier, healthier companion by your side. Identifying Key Qualities in a Ferret Vet When selecting a ferret vet, you’ll want to guarantee they possess specialized knowledge about ferrets, as these unique creatures require distinct care compared to other pets. It’s also indispensable that your vet offers emergency care services, so you’re prepared for any urgent health issues that may arise. Additionally, effective communication and empathy are key, as they help build trust and guarantee your concerns are understood and addressed. Specialized Ferret Knowledge Although it might seem like any vet could handle a ferret’s health needs, finding one with specialized knowledge is pivotal for your pet’s well-being. Consulting an experienced ferret vet in Sacramento ensures your furry friend receives expert attention tailored to their unique nutritional and medical requirements. Ferrets have specific dietary needs, and an expert can guide you in selecting appropriate food options. Moreover, grooming techniques are another essential aspect of ferret care. Ferrets require regular grooming to maintain their coat health and hygiene. A knowledgeable vet can teach you the best practices for grooming, from ear cleaning to nail trimming. Prioritizing a vet with ferret-specific expertise verifies your pet receives the best care possible, fostering a healthy, happy life. Emergency Care Availability While specialized knowledge in ferret care is essential, having a vet with emergency care availability is equally important for your pet’s well-being. Ferrets can face sudden health issues, so you need a vet who offers prompt availability during crises. Look for clinics that provide 24/7 access or have arrangements with nearby emergency facilities. This guarantees your ferret receives immediate attention when it matters most. Additionally, established emergency protocols are pivotal. A vet with these protocols can quickly assess and treat your ferret, minimizing stress for both you and your pet. They should be experienced in handling ferret-specific emergencies, confirming the best possible outcomes. Choosing a vet with these qualities provides peace of mind, knowing your ferret is in capable hands during urgent situations. Communication and Empathy In selecting a ferret vet, effective communication and genuine empathy are indispensable qualities to ponder. You want a vet who excels in compassionate communication to guarantee you understand your ferret’s health needs clearly. It’s not just about relaying medical facts; it’s about listening to your concerns and acknowledging the emotional bond with your pet. This empathetic understanding fosters trust and confidence in the care provided. Consider these aspects: Active Listening: Does the vet truly listen to your questions and concerns? Clear Explanations: Are complex medical terms broken down into understandable language? Emotional Support: Does the vet offer comfort and reassurance during stressful times? Choosing a vet with these qualities guarantees your ferret receives the best possible care. Utilizing Online Resources for Vet Research How can experienced ferret vets stay current with the ever-evolving field of veterinary medicine? By effectively utilizing online resources, they can enhance their expertise and guarantee your ferret receives the best care possible. Start by employing online search strategies to identify vets who specialize in ferret care. Websites like VetFinder and the American Ferret Association provide directories of qualified professionals. For thorough vet research, explore reviews and ratings on platforms such as Google and Yelp. Look for vets who actively engage in continuing education through webinars and online courses. This reveals their dedication to staying informed about the latest advancements in exotic pet care. By utilizing these resources, you’ll be well-equipped to find a vet who’s both knowledgeable and passionate about caring for ferrets. Seeking Recommendations From Ferret Communities When it comes to selecting a vet for your ferret, seeking recommendations from ferret communities can be invaluable. These groups provide firsthand insights from fellow ferret owners who have navigated similar journeys. Immerse yourself in ferret community forums and social media groups to connect with experienced ferret enthusiasts who can guide you to reputable vets. By engaging with these communities, you can access: Personal testimonials: Real-life experiences from ferret owners about specific vets. Local insights: Recommendations tailored to your area, ensuring convenience. Trustworthy connections: Building a network with people who genuinely care about ferret welfare. Approaching these communities with empathy and curiosity can help you find a vet who understands the unique needs of your ferret, ensuring they’re in capable hands. Evaluating Vet Credentials and Experience Why do vet credentials and experience matter so much when choosing the right care for your ferret? Ferrets have unique health needs, and a vet’s credentials assure you they’re equipped to meet those needs. Look for vets who’ve pursued continuous education in exotic animal care. This shows they’re committed to staying updated on the latest treatments and techniques. Experience matters too. A vet with several years of ferret-specific practice will likely have encountered a range of health issues, providing them with the insight to handle complex cases. Additionally, effective client communication is essential. A vet who listens and explains treatments clearly guarantees you’re part of your ferret’s care journey, building trust and understanding between you and your vet. Preparing Questions for Your Vet Consultation When preparing for your ferret’s vet consultation, it’s important to have a clear set of questions ready to address essential health concerns and ferret-specific care needs. Consider asking about common health issues, dietary requirements, and preventative measures to guarantee your furry friend stays healthy. Don’t forget to inquire about emergency procedures so you’re ready if an urgent situation arises. Essential Health Concerns As a devoted ferret owner, it is crucial to be well-prepared for your vet consultations to guarantee your furry friend’s health is in ideal condition. Understanding common health problems and chronic conditions affecting ferrets can help you ask the right questions. To make the most of your vet visit, consider preparing questions about: Common health problems: Ask about signs of adrenal disease, insulinoma, and gastrointestinal issues, which are prevalent in ferrets. Chronic conditions: Discuss long-term management strategies for any diagnosed conditions, ensuring your ferret’s comfort and longevity. Preventative care: Inquire about vaccinations, dental care, and dietary recommendations tailored to ferret-specific needs. Ferret-Specific Care Needs Maneuvering the unique care needs of ferrets can feel overwhelming, but being proactive in your approach will make a significant difference in your pet’s well-being. When preparing questions for your vet consultation, focus on ferrets’ proper diet requirements. Ferrets are obligate carnivores, needing high-protein, low-carb diets. Ask your vet about the best food options and how to guarantee your ferret’s nutritional needs are met. Additionally, ferrets have unique behavior traits, such as their playful and curious nature. Discuss any unusual behaviors you’ve noticed, so your vet can guide managing these traits effectively. Understanding your ferret’s social needs can prevent behavioral issues. By addressing these aspects, you’ll safeguard your ferret gets the care it deserves, fostering a healthier, happier life. Emergency Procedures Inquiry Have you ever wondered what to do if your ferret faces an emergency? It’s vital to ask your vet about emergency procedures during your consultation. Knowing what to do can make all the difference. Consider asking these key questions: After hours access: Does the clinic offer services outside regular hours, or do they partner with an emergency facility? Emergency transport options: Are there recommended services or guidelines for safely transporting your ferret in an emergency? Immediate care protocols: What steps should you take at home while arranging transport to the clinic? Comprehending these aspects guarantees you’re prepared and can act swiftly in a crisis. Remember, your ferret’s health is paramount, and learning these procedures can provide peace of mind. Scheduling a Preliminary Visit to Assess the Clinic Why is it important to schedule a preliminary visit to the clinic before choosing a ferret vet? This vital step guarantees you’re selecting the right professional to care for your ferret’s unique needs. Start by observing communication during your initial interactions—are the staff friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to your inquiries? Evaluate your appointment experience by considering the clinic’s environment. Is it clean, well-organized, and equipped with ferret-specific resources? During your visit, take note of how quickly and efficiently the clinic operates. Are appointments running on time, and is the staff respectful of your schedule? These factors contribute tremendously to your confidence in their ability to provide consistent, quality care. Trust your instincts, and confirm the clinic aligns with your expectations for your ferret’s health and well-being. Observing the Vet’s Interaction With Your Ferret When observing the vet’s interaction with your ferret, pay close attention to their handling skills, as gentle and confident handling is vital for your pet’s well-being. Notice how your ferret reacts; a calm and relaxed demeanor is a good indicator of the vet’s expertise. It’s important that you feel assured in the care your ferret is receiving, ensuring a positive experience for both of you. Assess Vet’s Handling Skills Observing how your vet handles your ferret is crucial for evaluating their expertise and ensuring your pet’s well-being. Pay close attention to how the vet’s body language affects your ferret’s cooperation. A skilled vet will approach your ferret calmly, using gentle movements to gain trust. Look for these signs: Gentle Handling: The vet should use a calm, steady touch. Ferrets are sensitive and can easily become stressed with rough handling. Confidence and Control: Experienced vets display confidence, maintaining control without force, helping your ferret feel secure. Communication Skills: A good vet talks softly to your ferret, easing anxiety and encouraging cooperation. These observations can help you determine if you’ve found a vet who truly understands and cares for your ferret. Note Ferret’s Comfort Level How can you gauge your ferret’s comfort level during a vet visit? Start by observing your ferret’s behavior as it interacts with the vet. An experienced vet will approach your ferret with a calm demeanor, minimizing your ferret’s stress level. Notice if your ferret appears relaxed or if it exhibits signs of distress such as excessive squirming or vocalizing. A ferret that’s comfortable will often be curious, exploring its surroundings and showing interest in the vet’s actions. Watch how the vet handles your ferret. Gentle, confident handling helps reduce anxiety, whereas abrupt or rough handling can elevate your ferret’s stress level. Trust your instincts; you know your ferret best. If something feels off, it’s okay to discuss your concerns with the vet. Considering the Clinic’s Facilities and Equipment As you evaluate a clinic for your ferret’s care, the quality of its facilities and equipment plays an essential role in ensuring high-standard veterinary services. Start by considering the clinic’s sanitation protocols; a clean environment reduces infection risks and promotes quicker recovery. Next, evaluate the staff’s ferret handling experience. Qualified staff who are well-versed in ferret behavior ensure your pet receives the best care possible. Check for specialized equipment: Appropriate tools for ferret-specific procedures enhance diagnostic accuracy. Assess the cleanliness: Look for spotless waiting and examination rooms, which indicate strong hygiene practices. Inquire about staff training: Experienced professionals should be capable of handling ferrets safely and compassionately. These aspects ensure your ferret receives excellent care. Reviewing Follow-Up Care and Emergency Services Beyond the clinic’s facilities and equipment, another essential aspect of your ferret’s care involves understanding the follow-up and emergency services offered. It’s pivotal to know how the vet handles post-treatment follow up recommendations. A thorough vet will provide clear guidelines to guarantee your ferret’s speedy recovery and continued health. Ask about their system for scheduling follow-up appointments and how they track your pet’s progress. Additionally, having access to reliable emergency contact information is indispensable. Confirm the clinic offers 24/7 emergency services or has arrangements with an after-hours facility. This certifies that you can act swiftly should an urgent situation arise. Trust in a vet who prioritizes continuous care and is prepared for emergencies, offering you peace of mind.  

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    

Uh oh! You’re a new guinea pig (hamster, gerbil, mouse, rat, and even rabbit) owner, or an owner looking to try a different bedding, and you are faced with a wall of options at the pet store or their respective online site! What do you do? Which is the most effective for your pet?  This blog will look at the most common types of bedding and why I feel carefresh small pet bedding stands out from the rest.  The blog will be written from my experience as a guinea pig owner of 35 years and exclusive carefresh user for 12 years, but the same experiences apply to other types of small furry friends as well.   The first thing any guinea pig owner needs to remember is that a guinea pig pen, cage, or area must be regularly cleaned, regardless of bedding, or odor and potential adverse health effects for the guinea pig are likely.  What are the Readily available options for bedding? Not recommended by virtually all veterinary experts aare; Newsprint, straw, corn cob, or hay. These really should never be used. While most newsprint today contains a safer soy-based ink, ingesting the newsprint (and many guinea pigs, if given the opportunity, like to nibble on paper-and thus ingest the ink) isn’t good for them. Hay is crucial for the vast majority of their dietary intake but should not be used as sole bedding for the habitat. Both straw and hay as bedding, and corn cob as well, have awful absorption rates and as a result have a high likelihood of producing harmful mold. They are also very hard on your guinea pigs' feet due to their lack of softness and can lead to a painful condition that often leads to an amputation, known as Bumblefoot.  More popular and readily available are cedar and pine shavings, so called “softwoods”. While often inexpensive, these beddings contain a lot of dust, which is harmful to a guinea pig"s respiratory system. Even worse, they contain oils that can not only irritate a guinea pig’s skin, but breathing the oils can, over time, lead to a host of issues including liver damage.  Also readily available is “kiln dried” pine shavings. While the heavy pine odor is reduced and some of the dust and oil is also reduced, they are still somewhat prevalent. And long-term usage increases a guinea pigs chance to develop skin or respiratory issues.  Aspen bedding is also relatively easy to find. While Aspen doesn’t contain the dangerous respiratory damaging oils, its absorbency is low, and the main function of any bedding is to absorb and reduce odor as well as giving the guinea pigs a comfortable area to rest on.  Overall, wood-based shavings have inconsistent absorption properties and limited odor control.  Paper based beddings, such as carefresh So, why carefresh? The pitfalls, and potential negative health effects of other beddings have been discussed, so that leads to using the bedding that is best for your guinea pigs.   First, let’s look at some issues with the leading competitor’s paper-based bedding. One thing a lot of people may not consider is, again my personal experience shows, that carefresh does not easily adhere to any “treats” such as lettuce or other vegetables, thus the guinea pig won’t ingest the bedding with the “treat”. The absorbency of carefresh, and the slightly thicker size than competitors, I believe, allows for the carefresh to be “heavier” than the “treat” and thus falls off of it. The leading brand tends to often stick to the treats and results in the guinea pig sometimes ingesting the bedding. And while the bedding may be non-toxic, it can still expand in the pig's stomach which likely will lead to potentially serious gastrointestinal issues. The leading brand is much thinner, and you can even get many pieces to “peel” and unravel into a thin strip of paper- easily attachable to wet veggies and thus easier to be ingested.  While having slightly larger pieces, aiding in absorption, carefresh is super soft and you cannot “peel” apart the individual pieces into thin strips of paper like you can with competing brands.    carefresh is a premium paper bedding that, in my very own experience, greatly outperforms the competition.   First, the biggest issues of other beddings discussed are not of concern with carefresh. carefresh is 99% dust free and twice as absorbent as other shavings. Tests have also shown it is great for controlling odors, but tests aren’t needed for any of that because “the proof is in the pudding” and carefresh users already know this.      Personally, I like to add a light sprinkling daily to the existing base to give even more absorbency and comfort.    Oh, and carefresh comes in both “natural color” and a wide array of safe and fun colors!   What about fleece bedding?  “I don’t need carefresh, I use fleece.” I often hear fleece bedding users say this. And as fleece bedding is increasingly popular, it too has some potential issues, and I believe it is essential for fleece users to at least have some carefresh on hand. First, the effectiveness of fleece to absorb moisture and help control odors depends on the type of material used. Secondly, fleece should be attended to daily, flipping sides, etc. to maximize effectiveness, and fleece also requires regular washing so it’s important to have easy access to a washer and dryer.   Fleece, especially not attended to daily, can also provide an environment that is favorable for bacteria to form as a result of being moist from urine. But cared for properly, fleece can be an acceptable bedding. However, why should fleece users have carefresh on hand?  If you have a guinea pig that’s not feeling well, it may be very difficult to inspect urine and feces to not only determine which pig it’s coming from, but also to discern any abnormal color in urine or other discharge that may give hints to a particular health issue. If the fleece user has carefresh (white or other light color), the carefresh can be placed in a designated area of the enclosure and greatly increase the opportunity to detect which guinea pig(s) have some issues and what the symptoms are which allow for the opportunity to document and convey to a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.   Plus, a guinea pig that is not feeling well is likely to not move very much and the absorption properties of carefresh will greatly reduce the chances of that guinea pig having to lie in a fleece that is potentially wet due to lack of movement by the ill guinea pig.   And lastly, if your furry friend is not feeling well and/or recovering from an issue, a fluffy mound of carefresh would be a welcome comfort to recover in before returning to the main area.  Of course, nothing else matters if your furry friend is happy and comfy in carefresh bedding.   So, the final word goes to my boys Cosmo and Bentley, and I think it’s pretty obvious they love their carefresh bedding! They give carefresh “two paws up”!