Quick Answer
Set up a digging platform in a few minutes by choosing a safe location, adding a soft digging material, and introducing your pet gradually. The Tiny Paws Digging Platform is a ready-made option that protects your floor while letting rabbits and guinea pigs dig naturally.
Why a Digging Platform Matters for Small Pets
Rabbits and guinea pigs have a strong natural instinct to dig. Without an outlet, they may dig at carpet, bedding, or cage liners. A dedicated digging platform gives them a safe space to satisfy this urge without damaging your home or risking injury from unsuitable materials.
A good digging platform is sturdy, made from untreated wood, and large enough for your pet to move around. The Tiny Paws Digging Platform fits these criteria—it's handmade from safe, natural wood and designed specifically for small pets.
Choosing the Right Spot and Material
Place the platform in a quiet corner of your pet's habitat or play area, away from food and water bowls to keep the digging material dry. Avoid high-traffic areas where your pet might feel disturbed.
Fill the platform with a soft, dust-free substrate such as hay, shredded paper, or fleece strips. Avoid cedar or pine shavings, as their oils can irritate small pets' respiratory systems. Change the material regularly to maintain hygiene.
Step-by-Step Digging Platform Setup
- Choose the Location: Place the digging platform in a quiet, low-traffic area of your pet's habitat or playpen. Ensure it's on a flat, stable surface so it doesn't tip over when your pet jumps in. Common mistake: putting the platform near food or water, which leads to soggy digging material and mold.
- Add Safe Digging Material: Fill the platform with a 2-3 inch layer of soft, dust-free substrate. Good options include timothy hay, shredded unbleached paper, or fleece strips. Avoid pine or cedar shavings. Checkpoint: if your pet starts sneezing or scratching after digging, switch to a different material immediately.
- Introduce Your Pet: Place your rabbit or guinea pig gently into the platform. Let them explore at their own pace. You can hide a small treat or a few pellets in the material to encourage digging. Common mistake: forcing your pet into the platform or leaving them unsupervised on the first try. Some pets need a few sessions to get comfortable.
- Monitor and Maintain: Check the platform daily for soiled or wet material and replace it as needed. Wipe down the wooden platform with a pet-safe cleaner weekly to prevent bacteria buildup. Empty the platform completely and wash it with mild soap and water once a month to keep it hygienic.
Product Mention
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Tiny Paws Digging Platform: We've never met a rabbit who didn't love to dig. Instead of having your carpet ruined, you can provide a lovely handmade platform just for the purpose! We make these 100% natural wood digging platforms by hand in our woodshop. We only use safe untreated wood that is safe for rabbits. This platform is ready to use out of the box—no assembly needed—and its untreated wood surface is safe if your pet chews on it, unlike painted or treated alternatives.
Tiny Paws Digging Platform
