Is aspen ok?

[CathyB]

I have a large amount of aspen shavings to use for my chinchillas. Is this ok for the chicks? I am also have puppy pads here and paper towels. Do I go get pine for the chickies or what? Thanks!

 

[halfwaynowhere]

Aspen should be fine, it doesn't contain aromatic oils, which is why its safe for your chinchillas.

One thing I'm confused about- pine and cedar are a big no-no with small animals because of phenols, but pine is safe for chickens, while cedar is not?

 

[silkiechicken]

You can use pine for chicks, I think it's just the cedar that gives off the high levels of phenols that destroy respiratory linings.