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Can I safely change my hamster's paper bedding to Timothy hay?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female

My current hamster I have had for a year and a Half has always used a paper like bedding and, i would like to change the bedding to Timothy Hay. Would this be ok? or would it affect the hamster in anyway because i have always used the paper like bedding?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 3rd, 2017

According to the Purdue University Veterinary school handout on hamsters, Timothy Hay can be used as bedding for hamsters. It will absorb some urine, but it does not control odors and will mold when wet. You can use it as a top dressing over a paper-like bedding, and change the hay every one to two days. The bedding underneath will have to be changed once a week. Fresh Timothy hay is best, as pre-packed hay bought in the pet store is dried to prevent molding, which makes it harder and less suitable for bedding. Marie can also nibble on the hay as a supplement.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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