Cedar Shavings and Health Risks in Sheep
Cedar shavings should be avoided as bedding for sheep due to potential respiratory irritation and skin problems, despite limited direct research on this specific combination.
Potential Health Concerns with Cedar Shavings in Sheep
Respiratory Concerns
- Cedar wood contains aromatic compounds that can cause respiratory irritation in animals
- While specific studies on cedar shavings and sheep are limited, evidence from other contexts suggests potential risks:
- Wood dusts in general are known to cause respiratory symptoms including rhinitis, asthma, and dyspnea 1
- Occupational exposure to western red cedar has been documented to cause dermatitis in humans 1
- Bio-aerosol exposure levels in animal barns vary significantly based on bedding materials, with plant-based materials contributing to higher exposure levels 2
Skin Irritation Risks
- Direct skin contact with cedar shavings may cause:
- Irritant contact dermatitis
- Allergic contact dermatitis
- Skin irritation and itching
Evidence from Animal Husbandry Guidelines
The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians (NASPHV) has documented multiple skin conditions in animals that can be exacerbated by inappropriate bedding:
- Ectoparasites like Sarcoptes scabiei can infest sheep and cause skin irritation and itching 3
- Skin conditions in sheep can be difficult to diagnose and may persist for multiple days 3
- Proper husbandry practices, including appropriate bedding selection, are recommended to reduce risks associated with skin parasites and irritation 3
Alternative Bedding Options
Based on comparative research on bedding materials:
- Sawdust (particularly from hardwoods rather than softwoods) appears to have lower bio-aerosol levels compared to other bedding types 2
- Straw bedding is commonly used but may have higher levels of β(1→3)-glucan, which can contribute to respiratory issues 2
- Pine shavings, while common, have been shown to be highly cytotoxic in laboratory studies 4
Prevention and Management
If sheep show signs of skin irritation or respiratory problems:
- Immediately remove cedar shavings and replace with more appropriate bedding
- Provide proper veterinary care for affected animals
- Implement parasite control through regular veterinary checks 3
- Ensure adequate ventilation in sheep housing areas to reduce respiratory irritants
Conclusion
While direct studies on cedar shavings and sheep are limited, the available evidence from related contexts suggests caution. The aromatic compounds in cedar wood that can cause respiratory and skin irritation in humans and other animals are likely to affect sheep similarly. Given the documented cases of wood dust causing allergic reactions and the general principles of animal husbandry that emphasize appropriate bedding materials, it's prudent to avoid cedar shavings for sheep bedding.