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Why are my guinea pigs chewing bedding? Is it safe for digestion?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Guinea Pig | Male | unneutered | 7 months and 14 days old

I switched my guinea pigs to Kaytee Lavender bedding. They both have food, hay, and water. Two bowls of food, two bottles of water, and two hay containers. They both seem to be chewing on the bedding and I'm worried. Should this be a concern? I'm worried about their digestive system from chewing on the bedding. My girl friend said her guinea does it too when she's bored, could this be why they are chewing it? They share a cage.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Miranda Sadar, DVM, DACZM

Veterinarian

Published on July 30th, 2018

I think that it is valid that you have concerns about your guinea pigs. There are always risks of intestinal obstruction when animals eat their bedding, and if this started when you switched the bedding, I would recommend switching it back. Also, make sure they have plenty of fiber around, including lots of hay. If you would like to add something into the cage for them to chew on, cardboard boxes with no labels or tape work great! I hope that gives you a place to start!

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