Animal bedding

[An Rí]

Industrial hemp is an excellent material for animal bedding due to its unique combination of properties that benefit both the animals and their caretakers. Here’s why it’s often preferred:

1.​

• Hemp hurd, the inner core of the hemp stalk, is exceptionally absorbent. It can absorb up to 4 times its weight in moisture, which helps keep animal areas dry and reduces odor. This high absorbency also means that hemp bedding lasts longer before needing to be replaced, making it more economical.

2.​

• Hemp naturally neutralizes odors, helping to reduce the smell of ammonia from animal waste. This can create a more pleasant environment for animals and people working in the area.

3.​

• Hemp bedding is low-dust, making it suitable for animals with respiratory sensitivities, like horses, rabbits, and chickens. The reduced dust also benefits people who handle the bedding and spend time around the animals, lowering the risk of respiratory issues.

4.​

• Hemp bedding breaks down quickly and can be composted after use, unlike some wood shavings or straw. This makes it an eco-friendly choice, as it enriches the soil when composted, reducing environmental waste.

5.​

• Hemp has natural antimicrobial and insect-resistant properties, helping to reduce bacteria and parasites in animal enclosures. This makes it a safer option for animals, particularly those that are susceptible to infections.

6.​

• The soft texture of hemp hurd provides a comfortable and cushioned bedding for animals. This is especially beneficial for small animals like rabbits and chickens, as well as larger animals like horses that stand or lay down on the bedding for extended periods.

7.​

• Hemp bedding offers good thermal insulation, which helps regulate temperature, keeping animals warm in winter and cool in summer. This is important for maintaining animal health and comfort in various climates.

8.​

• Because hemp bedding is durable and highly absorbent, it often lasts longer than alternatives like straw or wood shavings, meaning fewer bedding changes and less labor overall.

These characteristics make hemp bedding a versatile, sustainable, and effective choice for animal care, supporting both animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

 

[An Rí]

For the last three of four years, I've been using hemp hurd in my chicken coop. I made the coop from an old IBC tank and covered it in recycled pallet wood. The bottom of the coop is about 30cm deep so can take 200 litres of hemp hurd at a time. This means instead of having to change the bedding in the coop every few days it lasts for about three months.