Cardboard Bedding for Horses with COPD
Why is shredded cardboard bedding a good choice for horses with COPD?
Shredded cardboard bedding is a good choice for horses with COPD because it is a dust-free alternative to other types of bedding, such as straw or shavings. Dust can irritate the respiratory system of horses with COPD, making it more difficult for them to breathe. Shredded cardboard is also absorbent, which helps to keep the stable dry and clean. Additionally, it is biodegradable and easy to dispose of, making it a sustainable option.
How can using dust-extracted cardboard bedding help a horse with COPD?
Horses with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), also known as heaves, can benefit from using dust-extracted cardboard bedding. COPD is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and constriction of the airways, making it difficult for the horse to breathe. Dust and other irritants in the horse’s environment can exacerbate symptoms.
Dust-extracted cardboard bedding is processed to remove the dust and other fine particles that can irritate the respiratory system. This means that the bedding is less likely to trigger an episode of coughing or wheezing in a horse with COPD. Using dust-extracted cardboard bedding can help to reduce the amount of irritants in the horse’s environment and provide a cleaner, safer sleeping area.
It’s important to note that COPD is a chronic condition and requires management to improve the horse’s quality of life. Using dust-extracted cardboard bedding is a part of an overall management plan that should include other strategies such as proper stall ventilation, avoiding exposure to irritants like mould and pollen, and working with a veterinarian to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Will shredded cardboard bedding make my horse’s bed less wet?
Shredded cardboard bedding can help to keep your horse’s bed less wet by absorbing moisture, but it may not completely eliminate wetness. The absorbency of the bedding depends on the quality of the cardboard and how frequently the bedding is changed.
It’s important to note that the bedding should be changed frequently enough to keep the stable clean and dry, and the horse should have access to a dry area to lie down. If the bedding is too wet, it can create an ideal environment for bacteria and fungus to grow which can lead to respiratory issues and other health problems.
Additionally, It’s important to keep in mind that the stable should have proper drainage, and adequate ventilation to avoid excess moisture. Also, it’s important to keep an eye on the horse’s urination and defecation habits and adjust the amount of bedding accordingly.
Overall, shredded cardboard bedding can be a good option for absorbency, but it’s important to keep the bedding dry and the stall well-ventilated to ensure the horse’s comfort and health.
How many 20KG bales of Shredded cardboard bedding will be needed to make a bed in a 12 x 12 stable?
The amount of shredded cardboard bedding needed to make a bed in a 12 x 12 stable will depend on how deep you want the bed to be and how frequently you plan to change the bedding.
As a rough estimate, assuming a depth of 6 inches (15 cm) and a weekly change of the bedding, around 2-3 20KG bales of shredded cardboard bedding will be needed for a 12 x 12 stable.
It’s important to keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and the actual amount of bedding needed may vary depending on factors such as the horse’s urination and defecation habits and the absorbency of the bedding you are using. It’s always recommended to monitor the bedding situation and adjust the amount as needed.
Also, if you are using the bedding for animals other than horses, the amount of bedding may vary as well.
How long does it take for Shredded cardboard bedding to decompose?
The decomposition time of shredded cardboard bedding can vary depending on the specific conditions it is in, such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of microorganisms.
In general, shredded cardboard bedding can take anywhere from several months to a few years to decompose. Under ideal conditions, where the bedding is exposed to high temperatures, moisture, and microorganisms, it can break down relatively quickly. However, in less favorable conditions, such as in a landfill, it may take much longer to decompose.
It’s important to keep in mind that the decomposition of the bedding is not only influenced by the environment, but also by the treatment the cardboard has received before being shredded, such as the ink and glue used, as well as the size of the pieces. These factors can affect the microorganisms that break down the bedding and how quickly it will decompose.
Overall, shredded cardboard bedding is a relatively sustainable option, but it’s still important to consider how and where the bedding will be disposed of.
Cardboard bedding over wood shavings?
Shredded cardboard can be a more cost-effective and eco-friendly option for horse bedding compared to wood shavings. It is often made from recycled materials and can be composted after use. Cardboard also has a lower carbon footprint than wood shavings as it doesn’t require cutting down trees. Additionally, it is more absorbent and can help keep the stable drier, reducing the risk of respiratory issues for the horse. However, it may not last as long as wood shavings and may need to be changed more frequently. It also may not have the same pleasant scent as wood shavings.
How easy to use is cardboard bedding?
Shredded cardboard horse bedding is relatively easy to use and maintain. It is sold in compressed, dust-extracted bales, which can be opened and fluffed up to create a soft, absorbent bedding for horses. It can be spread evenly in the stable and topped off as needed.
Some users report that it is more absorbent than wood shavings and helps keep the stable drier, which can reduce the risk of respiratory issues for the horse.
One of the benefits of using cardboard as bedding is that it is biodegradable and can be composted after use, making it an eco-friendly option. It is also cost-effective as it is made from recycled materials.
Find out more about the benefits of S4Bed recycled cardboard animal bedding email caroline@s4bed.co.uk or call us on 01342 659100
