Are sawdust and wood shavings toxic to gerbils?
Risks and signs
- Wood shavings can block the gut if eaten. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual
- Sawdust may cause breathing problems. Source: RSPCA
Sources
Merck Veterinary Manual: Providing a Home for a Gerbil (opens in a new tab)
“Unlike wood shavings that can obstruct a gerbil's gastrointestinal tract if ingested, paper-based bedding is non-toxic and digestible if eaten.”
RSPCA: Creating a good home for gerbils (opens in a new tab)
“Don't use sawdust, as it may cause respiratory problems.”
Royal Veterinary College: Gerbil care (RVC Exotics Service) (opens in a new tab)
“a deep layer of sawdust or shavings to allow burrowing behaviour”