Small Pet Allergies & Sensitivities — Clear Air, Gentle Care

Soothe itch, sneezes and irritation with allergy-aware picks for rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, mice and chinchillas. Curated by Canine & Co for South African homes, this collection focuses on low-dust bedding, unscented cleaners, simple diets & treats and calm grooming—so delicate systems stay comfortable.

What you’ll find

• Low-dust bedding & litter: Paper and aspen options that cut airborne particles.
• Unscented habitat care: Pet-safe enzymatic cleaners and deodorisers (no heavy perfumes).
• Hay choices (herbivores): Quality timothy/meadow hay; stored clean and dry to reduce dust.
• Sensitive grooming: Soft brushes, hypoallergenic wipes; chinchilla dust-bath sand/houses.
• Diet supports: Simple, species-appropriate pellets; Vitamin C for guinea pigs; gentle probiotics for transitions.
• Loo accessories: Paper/plant-based pellets, high-back trays and scatter-catching mats.

Pick by pet

• Rabbits & Guinea Pigs: Paper/aspen bedding; unscented cleaners; unlimited grass hay; keep hay racks above litter to reduce floor dust.
• Hamsters: Deep low-dust paper bedding; sand bath with species-safe, low-dust sand (avoid perfumed or dusty products).
• Rats & Mice: Paper bedding (no aromatic softwoods); frequent spot-cleans; good ventilation without drafts.
• Chinchillas: Regular dust baths (10–15 min) in a well-ventilated area; remove afterward to limit airborne dust.

Home tweaks that help

• Ventilation: Bright, airy room away from smoke, aerosols and perfumes; avoid direct sun and drafts.
• Dust control: Shake bedding/linens outdoors; store hay and pellets in sealed containers.
• Fragrance-free: Choose unscented cleaners, litter and laundry detergents around habitats.
• Simple diets: Keep treats tiny and plain; introduce one new item at a time over several days.

Cleaning routine

• Daily spot-clean: Remove soiled bedding; wipe bowls/bottles; refresh loo areas.
• Weekly deep-clean: Wash habitat with pet-safe, unscented cleaner; rinse and air-dry fully.
• Litter choices: Paper/plant-based pellets; avoid clumping clay and perfumed litters for small mammals.

Safety notes

• Species-specific products only; dose supplements by weight and follow labels.
• No routine water baths for rabbits, guinea pigs or chinchillas—spot-clean or use dust baths where appropriate.
• Patch test new wipes/topicals on a small area; discontinue if redness or irritation appears.

When to see an exotics vet

• Persistent sneezing, noisy breathing, nasal/eye discharge or crusting.
• Itchy skin, hair loss, scabs, head shaking or ear scratching.
• Reduced appetite, weight loss, lethargy or very small/dry stools.

Use filters to choose by species, bedding/litter type and format. Order online for fast delivery anywhere in South Africa— and build a gentle, low-dust setup that helps sensitive small pets breathe easy and feel comfortable.