Are sawdust and wood shavings toxic to rabbits?
Risks and signs
- Merck says sawdust and wood shavings are dusty and can irritate a rabbit's airways. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual
- The Royal Veterinary College says many can cause liver problems if eaten. Source: Royal Veterinary College
Why it is a problem
- Rabbits tend to eat their litter, so what lines the tray gets eaten. Source: Royal Veterinary College
Sources
Royal Veterinary College: Rabbit care (RVC Exotics Service) (opens in a new tab)
“Wood shavings and sawdust are not suitable as many can cause liver problems if consumed.”
Royal Veterinary College: Rabbit care information pack (RVC Exotics Service) (opens in a new tab)
“Remember rabbits are prone to eating their litter so avoid sawdust and clumping litters as they can be toxic.”
Merck Veterinary Manual: Providing a Home for a Rabbit (opens in a new tab)
“Sawdust and wood shavings are poor choices because they are dusty and can irritate rabbits' airways.”
RSPCA: Creating a good home for rabbits (opens in a new tab)
“These could include newspaper and dust-free (non-cedar) wood shavings.”