Hartz Natural Red Cedar Small Animal Bedding & Litter
In a Nutshell
- Mix of positive and negative reviews
- Health concerns due to cedar content
- Alternative products recommended
Quick Verdict
While some users praise the odor control and cleanliness, a significant number of reviews raise serious health concerns for small animals due to the cedar content. Many reviews recommend avoiding this product.
Quick Stats
Pet Compatibility
Critical Warnings
Cedar content is toxic to small animals
Prevention: Do not use this product for small animals, birds, or reptiles.
Pros & Cons
Pros
-
Odor Control (3)
Effective in controlling odor
-
Cleanliness (2)
Clean and long-lasting
-
Long-lasting (2)
Lasts a long time
-
Even absorption (2)
Absorbs odor evenly
Cons
-
Toxic to Small Animals (5) critical
Contains toxins harmful to small animals
-
Strong Smell (2) major
Smell is too strong for pets
-
Not recommended for specific use (2) major
Customers were asking to avoid using this product on large animals
-
Health Problems (3) critical
Potential health issues for pets
Quality Trend: Declining
Negative reviews over time indicate declining health and satisfaction related issues
neutral
negative
Who Is This For?
✓ Best For
- • Budget-conscious pet owners — Affordable and effective odor control.
✗ Skip If
- • Owners of small animals, birds, or reptiles — Health risks due to cedar content.
Durability & Care
Cleaning Methods
Floor Compatibility
Rating Distribution
Common Questions
Is this product safe for small animals?
No, it is not recommended due to health risks.
What alternatives are available?
Aspen and Carefresh are recommended as safer alternatives.
Highlighted Reviews
"Super clean shavings, no dust, long lasting the smell of the shavings are very odor eliminating I use them for my guinea pigs highly recommended"
"Shame on Hartz for making this product and on Chewy for selling it! Please google "cedar toxic small animals" to read myriad studies explaining this -- please do your homework and spare your pet respiratory, skin, eye, and even possibly liver problems."
Bottom Line
Due to the significant health risks raised by numerous reviewers, this product is not recommended for small animals. Look for safer alternatives that do not contain cedar.