Are sawdust and wood shavings toxic to rats?
Risks and signs
Sources
PDSA: Rats as pets (opens in a new tab)
“Never use a dusty bedding such as wood chippings or sawdust as these can cause breathing problems.”
RSPCA: Creating a good home for rats (opens in a new tab)
“Avoid dusty bedding materials such as sawdust, and any bedding which is made of aspen as these can result in breathing and other health problems.”
Merck Veterinary Manual: Providing a Home for a Rat (opens in a new tab)
“Cedar, pine, and other wood shavings contain oils that can be irritating to rats' sensitive respiratory tracts and are not recommended.”
Merck Veterinary Manual: Providing a Home for a Rat (opens in a new tab)
“Recycled paper products marketed as bedding are safe and easy to clean.”
Royal Veterinary College: Rat care (RVC Exotics Service) (opens in a new tab)
“Rats should be housed in a large glass or wire enclosure with good ventilation and a layer of sawdust or shavings.”