Newspaper

[Susan9608]

I have noticed references to using newpaper in guinea pig cages scattered throughout this forum. I did not realize that newspaper was safe to use for guinea pigs. My vet cautioned me a long time ago not to use newpaper for my hamster because the ink will rub off on their feet; then when the hamster bathes itself, it will lick the ink off its paws, which could make them dangerously ill. Does this not happen with guinea pigs?

I think this could be a great way to recycle our newspapers, but I just wanted to double check and make sure it's safe before I put some in the pigs' cages. Thanks!

 

[dagwellismypigy]

as long as it isn't colored ink you will be fine, i haven't noticed any deathly ilnesses and i've been using newspare in my cage for a few weeks. Hamsters may be diffrent from pigs though.

 

[LiciaMommycott]

This from an Ohio State Universite website:

"Until 10 years ago, lead, cadmium and other toxic heavy metals were commonly used in paper inks. Now, however, most publishers use organic pigments. Most of these pigments are the same as those used in tattoos, lipstick, hair coloring and other cosmetics."

https://ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/0136.html

I had previously heard in this forums that the ink contained lead and therefore was not safe. However, it sounds like this may be out of date information.

 

[Ly&Pigs]

Soy based ink is ok. If you wanted to use newspapers for your cage and the source is local you can call the newspaper and ask if they use soy based inks. Always let the newspapers sit for a couple of days or so before using them.