I do it to everything. I especially feel bad for objects that are treated badly. That's one reason I take care of my stuff. But also a reason I feel guilty for throwing things away.
My mother told me that when I was little, that a kid on the playground asked if I was American because of my accent. I still have an odd mix of Pennsylvania and Brooklyn.
I don't use any bedding in the run, but it is covered with a clear tarp year-round. When I only had it half covered, it smelled more. The moisture makes it smell, I think.
I have a Rent-a-coop one. I just finished a 3rd batch of chicks under it. Honestly, it does feel hot if you touch it. If you move your hand away even a little, though, you don't feel so much heat. Chicks are meant to be under it, not touching it, so they're ok. (They're fuzz sometimes does look...