Pine Bedding?

Question
Hi, i just bought a Syrian hamster today and i bought him pine bedding. I've been reading about hamster and caring for them and some sites say do not use pine or cedar bedding and other sites don't mention anything about them. I have pine bedding for him, is that bad? Should i be using something else?

Answer
Hi Steph,

Pine and Cedar beddings are dangerous for hamsters (and small animals in general) because they contain strong aromatic oils.  The aromatic oils irritate the hamster's respiratory system, and he ends up with an allergy that would make him miserable, or he ends up with a respiratory infection (which could be fatal).  

I would strongly encourage you to switch to Aspen or Carefresh beddings.  These are safe beddings with no aromatic oils.  (Also, they cost only a little more than Cedar or Pine.)  Be sure to clean the cage thoroughly with unscented, or mildly scented, hand soap before you replace the bedding (to make sure all the particulates from the Pine bedding are washed away).  Avoid dish detergent for cleaning, as this too has a very strong smell which can be irritating.

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask :)

Kelly