Types of Horse Bedding: Pros & Cons

Are you familiar with the various horse bedding options available for purchase? Among the most popular choices, six types stand out: straw, wood shavings, shredded wood, flax and hemp, paper and cardboard and rubber matting.
While each bedding type has advantages and disadvantages, we’ll specifically focus on the pros and cons of using wood shavings as horse bedding.
 
Pros of Wood Shavings for Horse Bedding
Wood shavings, commonly known as “shavings,” are widely preferred as horse bedding due to several advantages. Here are some other pros of using wood shavings for horse bedding:
Respiratory-Friendly: Wood shavings are an excellent choice for horses with respiratory conditions. Unlike certain bedding materials, wood shavings generate minimal dust, promoting better air quality and reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses.
Soft and Absorbent: The soft texture of wood shavings provides a comfortable and cushioned bedding surface. They are highly absorbent, efficiently soaking up moisture, such as urine, which keeps the bedding drier and cleaner.
Reduced Mold Formation: Wood shavings have natural anti-fungal properties and are less susceptible to mold growth than other bedding materials. This makes them a favourable option for maintaining a healthy environment and reducing the risk of respiratory issues.
Cost-Effective and Eco-Friendly: Wood shavings are a cost-effective bedding choice. They are readily available, and their high absorbency means you require less material overall. Wood shavings also generate less waste than other bedding options.
Convenient Packaging: Wood shavings are packaged in plastic, ensuring easy storage and protection against water damage. This packaging preserves the quality of the shavings and allows for convenient handling and transportation.
 
Cons of Wood Shavings for Horse Bedding
When opting for wood shavings as a horse bedding option, selecting types specifically designed for this purpose is crucial. Not all types of wood are suitable for horse bedding, as certain varieties can pose health risks. Additionally, some wood shaving products may be by-products of sawmills and could contain splinters that can be hazardous to your horse.
It’s important to be aware that when using wood shavings, you must regularly remove and replace the shavings that become soiled. This is necessary to prevent the buildup of ammonia over time. Fortunately, wood shavings have the advantage of clumping, making cleaning less stressful.
While initially requiring a substantial amount of wood shavings to create a comfortable bed for your horse, the ongoing maintenance is relatively easy and requires less product.