* Dustiness: Calcium sand is very dusty, which can irritate your gerbil's respiratory system and lead to health problems.
* Ingestion: Gerbils are prone to chewing and ingesting their bedding. Calcium sand can cause digestive issues and blockages if ingested.
* Lack of Absorbency: It doesn't absorb urine and moisture well, leading to a messy and unsanitary environment.
* Not Suitable for Digging: Gerbils love to dig, and calcium sand doesn't provide the right texture or consistency for burrowing.
Better Alternatives:
* Paper-based bedding: Aspen shavings, paper pellets, or shredded paper are excellent choices. They are dust-free, absorbent, and safe for gerbils.
* Aspen shavings: These are a popular choice due to their absorbency and ability to hold up well under burrowing.
* Carefresh: This is a compressed paper-based bedding that expands when moistened, making it ideal for burrowing.
Always avoid:
* Cedar and pine shavings: These can release harmful oils that can harm your gerbil.
* Clay-based bedding: This can be dusty and can cause digestive problems if ingested.
Remember: Choose a bedding that is dust-free, absorbent, safe to ingest, and provides a comfortable environment for your gerbil to burrow and play.