Vetbed Density Question

[Sarah06281]

So I have been searching for a vetbed supplier here in the US. I have found one, but they have 2 different densities. One is 1300gm/square meter and the other is 2000gm/square meter. Then they have a third product which is "non-skid" with rubberized backing. So, is 1300gm thick enough or do I need 2000gm. and is the backing necessary? From what I have found so far on these forums, people place something under the vetbed (such as microfleece towels or newspapers). advice please and thank you.

 

[7squeakers.]

Hello and to the forum! I can't help you with the density thing,, but if you get the Vetbed with the rubber backing, you won't need to put anything underneath. It may be more difficult to wash though, due to the weight. The thinner Vetbed with the green backing is quite easy to wash in the machine. Or you can just hose it down outside in warm weather. Here in the UK, we have Vetbed and something very similar called Profleece. I have some of both and find that the Profleece stands up to washing better. I have found that the Vetbed pile has flattened in the wash.

 

[piggieminder]

Hello and welcome to the forum. I have both types of vetbed don't know about the thickness though, would guess the thinner one would be better for washing. The rubber backing is just to stop it skidding, if on a floor and say a dog jumped on it the green could move around but not really a problem in a cage with piggies. You still need something under the rubber one to help soak up the wet, otherwise it sits in wet and no more can soak through, a particular problem if guineas use one patch as a toilet. I use puppy pads and newspaper under mine. I prefer the green back as once its been washed a few times it gets more pliable and easier to handle. After months of use my rubber back still smells rubbery but I prefer the patterns that are available, I could only find plain in green back. Plain is better if you have a sick piggy and need to see urine colour or look for blood. So really it's down to personal preference/need.