Substrate
My rats are kept on cardboard substrate which is either shredded, such as Green Mile, or squares, such as Ecobale. They have 100% paper pellets, made by Finacard, in the litter trays. Safebed bedding is given to them in igloos, baskets or other nesting areas. Sometimes they have shredded paper or fleece scraps to play with too.
I do not use sawdust, woodshavings or wood pellets due to the release of phenols which can have many negative impacts on health. Handily, cardboard bedding also tends to be a lot cheaper.
If you intend to use a litter, it is important to get one which is 100% paper. Many litters say ‘paper-based’, and have nasty, potentially harmful things added. An example of this is Bio-Catolet, which has a strong fragrance added which can upset the delicate respiratory system of your rats.
I do not use sawdust, woodshavings or wood pellets due to the release of phenols which can have many negative impacts on health. Handily, cardboard bedding also tends to be a lot cheaper.
If you intend to use a litter, it is important to get one which is 100% paper. Many litters say ‘paper-based’, and have nasty, potentially harmful things added. An example of this is Bio-Catolet, which has a strong fragrance added which can upset the delicate respiratory system of your rats.