Typically, hamsters can start using paper bedding for warmth around November, during the fall and winter months. Paper bedding is soft, provides good insulation, and has strong moisture-wicking capabilities, making it ideal for keeping hamsters warm in the winter. However, it is generally a bit more expensive than wood shavings.
As a bedding material, paper bedding offers excellent insulation. Usually around November each year, you can start adding paper bedding to your hamster's nest. Paper bedding should generally be changed every one to two weeks, but more frequently, every three to four days, during the summer. It excels at absorbing moisture, eliminating odors, and providing warmth, all while being incredibly soft, making it an excellent choice for hamster bedding.
Pros and Cons of Using Wood Shavings vs. Paper Bedding for Hamsters
1. Wood shavings are versatile and can be used throughout the year, especially in the summer. They are effective at odor and moisture control and their loose texture helps with heat dissipation and ventilation.
While paper bedding is also good at moisture absorption and odor control, outperforming typical wood shavings, it needs to be changed more frequently. This is especially true in summer; if it's too thick, it can hinder ventilation and reduce its moisture absorption capacity, requiring changes every four to five days.
2. Wood shavings are typically more affordable, even for good quality ones, making them one of the most popular choices for bedding. On the other hand, paper bedding is relatively expensive, with higher usage and replacement costs compared to wood shavings.
3. Paper bedding has a soft and fine texture, good insulation, and generally does not contain excess dust or impurities. Using paper bedding in the winter can provide effective insulation and moisture control, ensuring a cleaner cage environment. Wood shavings, however, may not provide sufficient warmth in the winter, and its moisture absorption and ventilation are not as effective as paper bedding, which can negatively impact hamsters and their living environment.