Pumice stones and calcium

[Anne-Lise]

I was told by a SPCA (aspca in QUebec) worker that pumice stones were harmful for rodents......as they contain too much calcium and could be a problem for the bladder. It was the first time ever that I hear it could be HARMFUL. I always consider it an occasionnal treat, not to give all day long. But I was looking for more information on that.

 

[naturegirl240]

It sounds like they have it confused with cuttlebone, but i'm not completely sure.

 

[Anne-Lise]

She even told me I should throw it all away and no rodent should have it.... I just wanted sources, proofs, research, studies and arguments in order to understand.

 

[Parkerspetchins]

I think she is mistaken:

Veterinary Dictionary:
pumice
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A substance consisting of silicates of aluminum, potassium and sodium; used in dentistry as an abrasive.

From:
http://www.answers.com/topic/pumice

 

[ticklechin]

Pumice is a stone not a mineral.

http://www.mineralszone.com/minerals/pumice.html

 

[Anne-Lise]

Oohhhh great!! Thanks!

So there are many types. I couldn't get the visual difference though between both. Is the 'veterinarian' one man made? The one we can find on ebay and on most chin/rodent stores would obviously be the igneous rock that I know. I had absolutely no idea there was more than one type....