According to TVT recommendations, hamsters should have at least 20 cm of bedding, and ideally 30 cm or more, to be able to dig stable tunnels and express their natural behaviors. Bedding that is too shallow can frustrate them, increase their stress, and limit their ability to organize their small environment as they wish.

Since these are animals that love to dig, they need a deep and soft substrate to make tunnels, build their nest, and feel secure. A good depth of bedding supports thermoregulation, nest building, and helps limit odors. It also contributes to hygiene by absorbing moisture and limiting ammonia accumulation, and it plays a role in respiratory health by reducing dust and airborne irritants.

In Quebec, there are several types of suitable bedding, but it is important to understand that they do not all have the same role. We generally distinguish between main bedding, which forms the base of the habitat, and secondary bedding (also called complementary substrates), used in more targeted areas.

Primary bedding

This is what covers the majority of the enclosure floor. It must be:

• absorbent
• low-dust or dust-free
• unscented
• safe
• deep enough to allow digging (20 to 30 cm ideally)