What bedding should I choose for a guinea pig cage?
I've had two of them since summer and I don't want the house to smell too much. I'm using hemp bedding right now but it's expensive and doesn't last very long. Any recommendations?
3 answers
It's normal that it's expensive and you have to change it often, but hemp isn't necessarily the most practical solution for controlling odors. You could try mixing a few different things instead of relying on just one type of bedding. The classic combo that works well is putting a layer of compressed wood pellets (like the stuff for wood stoves) underneath - it absorbs really well - and hay or sawdust on top so your guinea pigs are comfortable. The pellets cost three times less than hemp and you don't have to clean as often because of it.
As for odors, honestly, there's no secret: the better ventilated the cage is and the more regularly you clean the spots where they do their business, the better it goes. Try removing the dirty spots every day, it's 5 minutes and it makes all the difference. Some people use newspaper under the bedding too, it absorbs moisture. If you've got space in your cage, two separate litter trays is even better - they'll use one specific spot for their business, so you can isolate the mess.
Hemp is still a good option if you find deals or buy in bulk, but honestly for two guinea pigs and keeping your place fresh, go with hay + compressed pellets + daily cleaning of the dirty spots. It costs less, it's effective, and you won't have that smell hanging around everywhere. Good luck with your two little ones ;)
Hemp's alright but honestly, try mixing some quality hay with a bit of corn bedding or wood pellets - it actually absorbs moisture and smells way better, lasts longer and it's cheaper! After that you just need to change it once or twice a week max depending on your cage size and how many guinea pigs you have, but your two little guys should be totally fine like that.
It's pricey, so try mixing poplar sawdust (no softwood) with a bit of hay instead - it absorbs pretty well and it's way cheaper. Otherwise compressed wood pellets last a decent while and they cut down the smell pretty good if you swap out the pee area every couple days or so.
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