Patent Publication Number: US-2022217938-A1

Title: Animal bedding

Description:
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/222,446 (now U.S. Pat. No. 11,129,357), which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/906,727 (now U.S. Pat. No. 10,966,405), with the entirety of U.S. application Ser. No. 17/222,446 (now U.S. Pat. No. 11,129,357) and U.S. application Ser. No. 15/906,727 (U.S. Pat. No. 10,966,405) being incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The domestic guinea pig is a common household pet. The guinea pig is docile by nature, friendly, and affectionate in response to handling and feeding. Care for the guinea pig typically includes a cage, such as a solid-bottom cage, and bedding added to the bottom of the cage. The bedding may include shredded paper, wood shavings, hay, or grass. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various aspects of the invention and together with the description, serve to explain its principles. Wherever convenient, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like elements. 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of the animal bedding. 
         FIG. 2A  is a front view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 2B  is an alternate front view of the animal bedding comprising the main section with the pocket absent. 
         FIG. 3A  is a first back view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3B  is a second back view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a bottom side view (a side view from the perspective of the main section—opposite the side where the pocket is connected to the main section) of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a top side view (a side view from the perspective of where the pocket is connected to the main section) of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a left side view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a right side view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 8A  is a cross-section at A-A′ of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 8B  is a cross-section at B-B′ of  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 9  is a front perspective side view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1  with a guinea pig shown. 
         FIG. 10  is a front perspective view of another implementation of the animal bedding illustrating the main section and the pocket, with the pocket covering part of the top layer of the main section and with the top layer of the main section including a wave stitching pattern in dashed lines. 
         FIG. 11  is a front elevation view of the animal bedding of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of the animal bedding illustrating the main section and the pocket, with the pocket covering part of the top layer of the main section and with the top layer of the main section including a zigzag stitching pattern in dashed lines. 
         FIG. 13  is a front elevation view of the animal bedding of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14A  is a side cross-sectional view of another example of animal bedding illustrating a fleece layer, an absorbent layer, a 3D air mesh layer, and a waterproof layer, with the fleece layer, the absorbent layer, and the 3D air mesh layer stitched together so that a pattern is present on the top surface of the fleece layer. 
         FIG. 14B  is a side cross-sectional view of another example of animal bedding illustrating the fleece layer, the absorbent layer, the 3D air mesh layer, and the waterproof layer, with the fleece layer and the absorbent layer (but not the 3D air mesh layer) stitched together so that a pattern is present on the top surface of the fleece layer. 
         FIG. 15A  is a front perspective view of a first part of the animal bedding, with a pocket covering part of the top layer of the first part of the animal bedding, with a set of teeth for one part of a zipper, and with the top layer including a diamond stitching pattern. 
         FIG. 15B  is a bottom perspective view of the first part of the animal bedding, illustrating the non-waterproof layer and the set of teeth for the one part of a zipper. 
         FIG. 15C  is one example of a cross-sectional view of A-A′ from  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 15D  is another example of a cross-sectional view of A-A′ from  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 16A  is a bottom perspective view of a second part of the animal bedding, with a waterproof layer shown, and with a set of teeth for a second part of a zipper designed to mate with the first part of the zipper shown in  FIGS. 15A-B . 
         FIG. 16B  is a top perspective view of the second part of the animal bedding, illustrating the waterproof layer and the set of teeth for the second part of a zipper. 
         FIG. 17  is a side cross-sectional view of another example of animal bedding with two parts that are connected to one another via a zipper. 
         FIG. 18A  is a second example of a front perspective view of a first part of the animal bedding reversibly attached to a second part of the animal bedding using a zipper, with a pocket covering part of the top layer of the first part of the animal bedding, with a set of teeth for one part of a zipper, and with the top layer including a diamond stitching pattern. 
         FIG. 18B  is a cross-section of a part of the animal bedding shown in  FIG. 18A . 
         FIG. 19A  is a top perspective view of the second part of the animal bedding with a plurality of buttons for connection to the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 19B . 
         FIG. 19B  is a bottom perspective view of the first part of the animal bedding with a plurality of buttons for a mating connection to the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 19A . 
         FIG. 20A  is a top perspective view of the second part of the animal bedding with Velcro for connection to the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 20B . 
         FIG. 20B  is a bottom perspective view of the first part of the animal bedding with Velcro for a mating connection to the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 20A . 
         FIG. 21A  is a top perspective view of the second part of the animal bedding with a plurality of magnets for connection to the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 21B . 
         FIG. 21B  is a bottom perspective view of the first part of the animal bedding with opposite polarity of a plurality of magnets for connection to the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 21A . 
         FIG. 21C  is a cross-section of a second part of the animal bedding shown in  FIG. 21A . 
         FIG. 21D  is a cross-section of a first part of the animal bedding shown in  FIG. 21B . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS 
     Overview 
     Domesticated animals typically have some type of animal bedding. For example, guinea pigs typically thrive in an environment that has suitable bedding. However, typical guinea pig bedding suffers from several drawbacks. First, typical bedding, such as wood or shredded paper, results in the guinea pig living in its waste (e.g., urine and feces), leading to a potentially unhealthy situation. For example, the guinea pig may develop bumblefoot (i.e., pododermatitis) if the guinea pig&#39;s feet are exposed to its own waste in the wood or shredded paper. Second, wood or shredded paper results in a considerable amount of waste. Third, wood or shredded paper, needing to be replaced periodically, resulting in a big expense. Fourth, guinea pigs tend to jerk and leap into the air (typically term “popcorning”), resulting in waste/bedding being kicked out of the cage and into the household. Fifth, paper or wooded bedding may cause dust to be present in the environment. Since small animals, such as guinea pigs, are very close to the ground, the animals&#39; noses may inhale the dust, causing respiratory-related diseases, such as URI (upper respiratory infection). As discussed further below, using fleece, which naturally does not have dust and has static properties to attract dust (which may be generated from hay, the guinea pigs&#39; main source of food) from the environment, may reduce the dust exposure to the animals and, in turn, reduce incidence of respiratory-related diseases. 
     Various forms of animal bedding are envisioned. The below discussion focuses on guinea pig bedding. Nevertheless, any discussion regarding guinea pig bedding may be equally applied to other forms of animal bedding. In one implementation, the animal bedding includes a main section. In another implementation, the animal bedding includes a main section and a pocket. In a first specific implementation, the main section comprises three layers, including a top layer, a middle layer, and a bottom layer. In a second specific implementation, the main section consists of the three layers. 
     The top layer may be made from a variety of materials. In one implementation, the top layer is composed of a material that is hydrophobic (e.g., tending to repel or fail to mix with water). In an alternate implementation, the top layer is composed of a material that is hydrophilic (e.g., tending to attract water). In still an alternate implementation, the top layer is composed of a blend of materials, with one material in the blend being hydrophilic and another material in the blend being hydrophobic (e.g., polyester/cotton blend). For example, one type of material for the top layer may comprise a synthetic fiber, such as a fabric woven or knitted from polyester (or other type of polymer) thread or yarn, a blend of polyester (or other type of polymer) with another material (e.g., cotton), or the like. One example material for the top layer is fleece, which may comprise a hydrophobic material. Fleece may come in different thicknesses, such as micro, 100, 200, and 300 grams per square meter (gsm), with 300 gsm being the thickest and least flexible and 100 gsm being less flexible. Further, fleece, may be made from polyester or other type of polymer. Alternatively, the top layer may comprise a plant-derived fiber, such as cotton or bamboo, which exhibit hydrophilic properties. 
     In one implementation, the middle layer may comprise a material that at least partly absorbs liquid (e.g., a hydrophilic material that attracts water). Specifically, the middle layer may comprise a material that is configured to break the liquid&#39;s surface tension so that the liquid moves into the spaces between fibers of the material, and into the fibers themselves. For example, the middle layer may comprise a cellulose-based material. Examples of cellulose-based materials include, but are not limited to: cotton; hemp; or bamboo. Other types of cellulose-based materials are contemplated. In the example of the middle layer being composed of bamboo, in one implementation, the middle layer may be entirely composed of bamboo. Alternatively, the middle layer may be composed of a bamboo blend (e.g., bamboo blended with polyester or other synthetic material). Various blends of bamboo may be used. In one implementation, the various blends of bamboo include: at least 30% bamboo and at most 70% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 40% bamboo and at most 60% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 60% bamboo and at most 40% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 70% bamboo and at most 30% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 75% bamboo and at most 25% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 80% bamboo and at most 20% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 85% bamboo and at most 15% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 90% bamboo and at most 10% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 95% bamboo and at most 5% of an alternate material (such as polyester or other synthetic fiber). In another implementation, the various blends of bamboo include: at least 30% bamboo and at most 70% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 40% bamboo and at most 60% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 60% bamboo and at most 40% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 70% bamboo and at most 30% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 75% bamboo and at most 25% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 80% bamboo and at most 20% of alternate material (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 85% bamboo and at most 15% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 90% bamboo and at most 10% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber); at least 95% bamboo and at most 5% of alternate materials (such as a blend of cotton fiber and polyester or other synthetic fiber). Bamboo (or bamboo blends) exhibit good hydrophilic properties, thereby attracting water (or urine) from the animal. In still an alternate implementation, the middle layer may be composed entirely of cotton. 
     Thus, in one implementation, the middle layer may consist of a single material. As one example, the material may entirely consist of bamboo, as discussed above. As another example, the material may entirely consist of a synthetic material. One specific example of a synthetic material is a microfiber. Specifically, a microfiber is a synthetic fiber that is finer than one denier or decitex/thread, and may have a diameter of less than ten μm. Microfibers may be made from polyesters, polyamides (e.g., nylon, a para-aramid synthetic fiber (e.g., Kevlar®), a meta-aramid material (e.g., Nomex®), trogamide), or a conjugation of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene. 
     In an alternate implementation, the middle layer may comprise a composite material (e.g., a blend of materials). As one example, the composite blend may comprise a cellulose fiber and a non-cellulose fiber (e.g., cellulose fibers and poly microfibers, such as bamboo blended with a synthetic fiber). As another example, the composite blend may comprise two or more types of cellulose fibers (e.g., bamboo/cotton blend). In one implementation, the bamboo may comprise bamboo pulp fiber. 
     In one implementation, at least a part of the bottom layer may be waterproof and/or at least partially water repelling (such as completely water repelling). For example, at least a part, such as one or more surfaces of the bottom layer, may be hydrophobic. The bottom layer may comprise a material with a plastic coating or laminate. The material may be composed of cotton, synthetic (e.g., polyester), or a cotton/synthetic blend (e.g., polyblend). The material may be coated or laminated with polyurethane laminate (PUL), commonly known as PUL Fabric. In one implementation, at least one side of the bottom layer has a laminate (such as PUL). In a first specific implementation, the side of the bottom layer closer to the middle layer is the side with the laminate. Specifically, when assembled, the laminate side of the bottom layer touches or contacts the middle layer, as discussed below. In a second specific implementation, the side of the bottom layer further from the middle layer is the side with the laminate. Specifically, when assembled, the laminate side of the bottom layer does not touch or contact the middle layer (and instead contacts the ground). In a third specific implementation, both sides of the bottom layer include the laminate. Thus, in one implementation, the bottom layer is composed of a material that is hydrophobic. In an alternate implementation, the bottom layer is composed of a material that is hydrophilic. In still an alternate implementation, the bottom layer is composed of a blend of materials, with one material in the blend being hydrophilic and another material in the blend being hydrophobic (e.g., polyester/cotton blend). 
     In this way, fluid, such as urine, may pass through the top layer and be absorbed in the middle layer. Further, the fluid that is in the middle layer may remain in the middle layer without passing through to the bottom layer (such as due to the laminate in the bottom layer). 
     In one implementation, the top layer, the middle layer, and the bottom layer are attached to one another. In a specific implementation, the top layer, the middle layer, and the bottom layer are stitched together along a perimeter, as described in more detail below. 
     In an alternate implementation, in addition to attaching the top layer, the middle layer and the bottom layer together, the top layer and middle layer (but not the bottom layer) are attached together separately. In a first specific implementation, the means of attachment of the top layer, the middle layer and the bottom layer is the same as the separate means of attachment of the top layer and the middle layer. For example, stitching may be used to attach the top layer, the middle layer, and the bottom layer together, and stitching may also be used to separately attach the top layer and the middle layer. In a second specific implementation, the means of attachment of the top layer, the middle layer and the bottom layer is different than the separate means of attachment of the top layer and the middle layer. 
     As discussed above, the location for attachment of the top layer, middle layer, and bottom layer are different from the location for separate attachment for the top layer and middle layer. For example, the top layer, middle layer, and bottom layer may be attached along a periphery or perimeter of the main section, as discussed above, and the top layer and middle layer may be separately attached in an interior of the main section. Further, the separate attachment of the top layer and middle layer may be in a pattern. For example, the stitching that attaches the top layer and middle layer may create a diamond pattern, square pattern, or the like as viewed on the top layer. 
     The separate attachment of the top layer to the middle layer may result in quilting. Quilting may result in one or more benefits. First, the middle layer, such as the bamboo or bamboo blend, even if the material (e.g., the bamboo) in the middle layer loosens, the middle layer will not shift significantly due to the quilting. Second, the quilting may hold the top layer and middle layer together better. Third, hay (or other debris) stuck in the top layer material (e.g., in the fleece material of the top layer) may be more easily removed because of the quilting. 
     In one implementation, a pocket may be attached to the main section (e.g., attached to at least one side or one edge of the main section). For example, the pocket may be attached on three sides or three edges to the main section, with the fourth side or fourth edge of the pocket being used as an opening for the animal to enter/exit the pocket. As another example, the pocket may be attached on two sides or two edges to the main section (such as to only two sides or two edges that meet in a corner of the main section). As still another example, the pocket may be attached to only one side or one edge of the main section. Certain animals, such as guinea pigs, are prey animals. In the wild, guinea pigs spend time underground. The pocket allows the guinea pig to burrow therein, where it is considered safe and dark. In one manner of manufacture, the three layers are attached to one another to form the main section, and thereafter, the pocket is attached to the main section. The method of attachment (e.g., stitching) for the three layers to form the main section may be the same method of attachment (e.g., stitching) for attaching the pocket to the main section. For example, the three layers may be stitched along a periphery to form the main section. Likewise, the pocket may be stitched along at least a part of the same periphery (such on three sides of the pocket) in order to attach the pocket to the main section. Alternatively, the method of attachment for the three layers to form the main section may be different from the method of attachment for attaching the pocket to the main section. Further, when the pocket is attached to the main section, the pocket may abut the top layer of the main section. Further, flipping back the pocket behind the main section results in the pocket abutting the bottom layer of the main section. In addition, in one implementation, the pocket may be constructed of the same material as the top layer. For example, the pocket may be constructed of a fleece material similar to the top layer. 
     Each fleece layer may include a softer side and a rougher side. Given this, the pocket may be formed such that only the softer side of the fleece material is exposed to the guinea pig. In one example, two fleece layers may be sewn together such that both sides of the pocket (e.g., the top side of the pocket (which the guinea pig touches when sitting on the pocket) and the underside of the pocket (which the guinea pig touches when burrowing in the pocket)) have the softer side of the fleece material exposed. Alternatively, a single fleece layer may be folded over such that both sides of the pocket have the softer side of the fleece material exposed. In contrast, the top layer may be constructed of one layer of fleece material, with the softer side of the fleece material abutting the pocket (and exposed to the guinea pig when the guinea pig is burrowing in the pocket or sitting on the main section) and the other side of the fleece material (e.g., the rougher side) abutting the middle layer (and therefore not exposed to the guinea pig). In still an alternate implementation, the pocket may be composed of 200-250 gsm fleece, whereas the top layer may be composed of 100-150 gsm fleece. Alternatively, the pocket may be composed of 200-300 gsm fleece, whereas the top layer may be composed of 100-150 gsm fleece. In this way, the top layer and the pocket may be formed of the same material; however, the configuration of the material for the pocket (e.g., such that two layers of fleece are used) may be different than the configuration of the top layer (e.g., such that a single layer of fleece is used). 
     Embodiments 
     Referring to the figures,  FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of the animal bedding  100 .  FIG. 2A  is a front view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1 . The animal bedding  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1  includes a main section  105  and a pocket  150 . As discussed above, the pocket may be used by an animal to burrow therein. For example,  FIG. 9  is a front perspective side view of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 1  with a guinea pig  910  shown within pocket  150 . Alternatively, the animal bedding may consist of the main section  105  without the pocket  150 . 
     Main section  105  includes a top layer  110 , a middle layer  130 , and a bottom layer  140 . Though not illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the middle layer is shown in  FIGS. 8A-B . Further, the bottom layer is illustrated in  FIGS. 3A-B  and  8 A-B. As discussed above, the top layer  110  may be made from a variety of materials, such as hydrophobic materials. Example materials include synthetic fibers (e.g., fleece) or synthetic blends. Likewise, the middle layer  130  may be made from a variety of materials, such as hydrophilic materials. Example materials include cellulose-based materials, such as bamboo or bamboo blends. The bottom layer  140  likewise may be made from a variety of materials, such as materials, with at least part of which are waterproof and/or water repelling. For example, the bottom layer may be composed of a fabric. In one implementation, the fabric for the bottom layer may be composed of cotton, synthetic (e.g., polyester), or a cotton/synthetic blend (e.g., polyblend), with a plastic coating or laminate applied to a side facing the middle layer, as discussed further below. 
     The top layer  110 , middle layer  130 , and bottom layer  140  may be connected or attached together in one of several ways. In one way, stitching may connect the top layer  110 , middle layer  130 , and bottom layer  140  together. For example,  FIGS. 1 and 2A  illustrate stitching  115  around an entire perimeter of main section  105 . Alternatively, stitching may be less than the entire perimeter. Further, separate from attaching the top layer  110 , middle layer  130 , and bottom layer  140  together, at least two of the components of the main section (but not the third component of the main section) may be connected together as well. For example, top layer  110  and middle layer  130  (but not bottom layer  140 ) may be connected separately. For example, stitching  120  may connect top layer  110  and middle layer  130 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2A . Stitching  120  may be in an interior of main section  105 , such as interior to the perimeter of main section. In this regard, stitching  120  (connecting top layer  110  and middle layer  130 ) is in a different part of main section  105  than stitching  115  (connecting top layer  110 , middle layer  130 , and bottom layer  140 ). Further, stitching  120  results in quilting  125  or bunching of the middle layer  130 . 
     Various patterns of stitching of the top layer  110  and middle layer  130  are contemplated. For example, stitching  120  results in a diamond shaped pattern. As another example, stitching may result in another type of quadrilateral shape pattern, such as a square shaped pattern, as shown in  FIG. 2B , which is an alternate front view of the animal bedding comprising the main section  205  with the pocket absent.  FIGS. 10-13  illustrate other types of stitching patterns.  FIG. 10  is a front perspective view of another implementation of the animal bedding  1000  illustrating the main section and the pocket, with the pocket covering part of the top layer of the main section and with the top layer of the main section including a wave stitching pattern  1010  in dashed lines.  FIG. 11  is a front elevation view of the animal bedding  1000  of  FIG. 10 .  FIG. 12  is a front perspective view of the animal bedding  1200  illustrating the main section and the pocket, with the pocket covering part of the top layer of the main section and with the top layer of the main section including a zigzag stitching pattern  1210  in dashed lines.  FIG. 13  is a front elevation view of the animal bedding  1200  of  FIG. 12 . 
     In particular, stitching  210  connects top layer, middle layer, and bottom layer. As shown, stitching  210  is along a periphery of main section  205 . Separate from stitching  210 , other stitching connects top layer and middle layer. Specifically, vertical stitching  220  and horizontal stitching  230  form a grid of squares (or other type of quadrilateral) that connects top layer and middle layer, but not bottom layer. 
     Pocket  150  may also be attached to main section  105 , such as by stitching along three sides  165 ,  170 ,  175  of pocket  150 . Fourth side  180  of pocket  150  is not attached to main section  105 . In one implementation, pocket  150  is less than half the surface area of main section  105  (e.g., pocket  150  may be ¼ or less than ¼ of the surface area of main section  105 ). As discussed below, in one implementation, pocket  150  may be attached to all of top layer  110 , middle layer  130  and bottom layer  140 . Alternatively, pocket  150  may be attached only to top layer  110  but not to middle layer  130  or bottom layer  140 . 
       FIG. 3A  is a first back view of the animal bedding  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1 . As shown, stitching  115  is along a periphery of the bottom layer  140 . Similarly,  FIG. 3B  is a second back view of the animal bedding  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , with stitching  330  along the periphery of bottom layer  320 . 
       FIG. 4  is a top side view of the animal bedding  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , showing pocket  150  and main section  105 . Likewise,  FIG. 5  is a bottom side view of the animal bedding  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , showing pocket  150  and main section  105 .  FIG. 6  is a left side view of the animal bedding  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , showing pocket  150  and main section  105 . Further,  FIG. 7  is a right side view of the animal bedding  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , showing pocket  150  and main section  105 . 
       FIG. 8A  is a cross-section at A-A′ of  FIG. 2A . In particular,  FIG. 8A  illustrates pocket  150 , top layer  110 , middle layer  130  and bottom layer  140 , with stitching connecting the various parts. For example, pocket  150  may be connected to top layer  110  (and optionally middle layer  130  and bottom layer  140 ) via stitching. As shown in  FIG. 8A , stitching  810  connects pocket  150  to all of top layer  110 , middle layer  130 , and bottom layer  140 . For implementations without pocket  150 , stitching  810  attaches top layer  110 , middle layer  130 , and bottom layer  140  together. Stitching  810  may be along the edge of each of the four sides, such as illustrated by stitching  210  in  FIG. 2B . Separate from stitching  810 , stitching  820  may connect top layer  110  and middle layer  130 . As shown, stitching  820  is a regular pattern in an interior. As discussed above, the pattern may comprise a diamond pattern, a wave pattern, a zig-zag pattern, or the like. Finally, bottom layer  140  includes surfaces  830  and  840 . When bottom layer is attached via stitching  810 , surface  830  abuts middle layer  130 . In a first implementation, surface  830  may be treated with a laminate or other material that makes surface  830  waterproof and/or at least partially water repelling (such as completely water repelling). In a second implementation, surface  840  may be treated with a laminate or other material that makes surface  840  waterproof and/or at least partially water repelling (such as completely water repelling). In a third implementation, surfaces  830  and  840  may be treated with a laminate or other material that makes surfaces  830  and  840  waterproof and/or at least partially water repelling (such as completely water repelling). The thicknesses illustrated in  FIG. 8A  are merely for illustration purposes only. Example thicknesses are provided below. Further,  FIG. 8A  includes gaps between pocket  150  and top layer  110 , top layer  110  and middle layer  130 , and middle layer  130  and bottom layer  140 . The gaps between the various layers and the pocket may not be present. 
       FIG. 8B  is a cross-section at B-B′ of  FIG. 2A .  FIG. 8B  is similar to  FIG. 8A , except for the absence of pocket  150 . 
     The following are examples of the materials, weights, thickness details of various parts of the animal bedding. The examples are merely for illustration purposes. For example, the pocket (or pocket layer) may comprise the following: term of the material: 100% Polyester; weight: 250 gsm; thickness: 0.7 mm. The top layer may comprise the following: term of the material: 100% Polyester; weight: 180 gsm; thickness: 0.48 mm. In the example of the middle layer being composed of a bamboo absorbent layer: term of the material: Bamboo fiber batting; weight: 400 gsm; thickness: 1 cm; blend: Bamboo fiber 70%, polyester 30%. As discussed above, various percent bamboo blends are contemplated. As another example, the waterproof bottom layer may comprise the following: term of the material: 100% Polyester; total weight: 130 gsm; overall thickness (including material and laminate): 0.44 mm; laminate weight: 40 gsm; laminate thickness: 0.02 mm; non-laminate material thickness: 0.42 mm; non-laminate material weight: 90 gsm. 
     As discussed above, one or more layers may be positioned between the top layer and the bottom layer. For example, the top layer may be composed of a variety of materials, such as material that is hydrophobic, material that is hydrophilic, or a blend of materials (such as one material in the blend being hydrophilic and another material in the blend being hydrophobic). The one or more middle layers may comprise at least one middle layer that at least partly absorbs liquid (e.g., a hydrophilic material that attracts water). In one or some embodiments, the bottom layer may be waterproof and/or at least partially water repelling (such as completely water repelling). 
       FIG. 14A  is a side cross-sectional view  1400  of another example of animal bedding illustrating a fleece layer  1410  (which is an example of the top layer), an absorbent layer  1412  (which is one example of one of the one or more middle layers and comprises a hydrophilic material), a 3D air mesh layer  1414  (which is another example of one of the one or more middle layers), and a waterproof layer  1416  (which is an example of the bottom layer). 
     The fleece layer  1410 , the absorbent layer  1412 , and the 3D air mesh layer  1414  are stitched together using stitching  1422  so that a pattern is present on the top surface of the fleece layer  1410 . An example of the pattern comprises a diamond shaped pattern, such as illustrated, for example, in  FIG. 1 . Other patterns are contemplated, as discussed above. 
       FIG. 14A  further illustrates stitching  1420 . Thus,  FIG. 14A  illustrates two attachments, with a first attachment (e.g., stitching  1420 ) that attaches the top layer (e.g., fleece layer  1410 ) with the bottom layer (e.g., waterproof layer  1416 ) and with a second attachment (e.g., stitching  1422 ) that attaches the top layer (e.g., fleece layer  1410 ) with the one or more middle layers (e.g., both the absorbent layer  1412  and the 3D air mesh layer  1414 ). As shown, stitching  1420  also connects the absorbent layer  1412  and the 3D air mesh layer  1414  with the waterproof layer  1416 . Stitching  1420  may be along at least a part of the periphery of the animal bedding, such as along an entirety of the periphery of the animal bedding (e.g., such as similar to stitching  115  around an entire perimeter of main section  105 ). Alternatively, or in addition, stitching  1422  may be such that a pattern may be present on at least a part of the surface of the fleece layer  1410 , such as at least over 50% of the surface of the fleece layer  1410 , at least over 60% of the surface of the fleece layer  1410 , at least over 70% of the surface of the fleece layer  1410 , at least over 80% of the surface of the fleece layer  1410 , at least over 90% of the surface of the fleece layer  1410 , or 100% of the surface of the fleece layer  1410 . 
     Thus,  FIG. 14A  illustrates that 3D air mesh layer  1414  is positioned between absorbent layer  1412  and waterproof layer  1416 . In one embodiment, there may be no other layers so that 3D air mesh layer  1414  is sandwiched directly between absorbent layer  1412  and waterproof layer  1416 . Alternatively, one or more layers may be positioned on either side of 3D air mesh layer  1414  (e.g., one or more layers between 3D air mesh layer  1414  and absorbent layer  1412  and/or one or more layers between 3D air mesh layer  1414  and waterproof layer  1416 ) so that 3D air mesh layer  1414  is sandwiched indirectly between absorbent layer  1412  and waterproof layer  1416 . 
     3D air mesh layer  1414  may include one or more qualities, such as one or both of: (1) greater rigidity (e.g., the 3D air mesh layer  1414  is more rigid (e.g., has less flexibility) than one or both of absorbent layer  1412  or waterproof layer  1416 ); and (2) at least partly repel water. 3D air mesh layer  1414  may include gaps (such as air gaps resulting in a 3D air mesh) within the 3D structure (e.g., a honeycomb structure), such that the 3D air mesh layer  1414  may comprises any one of the following solid/air structures: 90% structure vs. 10% air; 80% structure vs. 20% air; 70% structure vs. 30% air; 60% structure vs. 40% air; 50% structure vs. 50% air; 40% structure vs. 60% air; 30% structure vs. 70% air; 20% structure vs. 80% air; or 10% structure vs. 90% air. 3D air mesh layer  1414  may be composed of a variety of material. As one example, 3D air mesh layer  1414  may be composed of polyester. 
     In one or some embodiments, 3D air mesh layer  1414  may be composed of at least two separate fabric layers knitted together. Alternatively, 3D air mesh layer  1414  may be composed of at least three separate fabric layers knitted together (e.g., in a three fabric layer 3D air mesh layer  1414 , a face and a back may be connected by a monofilament yarn to produce a connecting cushion). Still alternatively, 3D air mesh layer  1414  may be composed of at least four separate fabric layers knitted together. In one or some embodiments, each layer of the 3D air mesh layer  1414  may be knitted simultaneously by a single machine. An example disclosure of cushioning fabric is in US Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0216328 A1, incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Examples of mesh fabric are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,273,608, 6,818,571, and 6,804,978, each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety. Thus, in one or some embodiments, the 3D air mesh layer  1414  may comprise three-dimensional mesh fabric, which may be a special type of knitted spacer fabric, with sandwich structure comprising (or consisting of) two separate meshed multifilament outer layers linked together with a layer of spacer monofilaments. 
     In one or some embodiments, the 3D air mesh layer  1414  may have a thickness that is greater than any one, any combination, or all of fleece layer  1410 , absorbent layer  1412 , and waterproof layer  1416  (though not as depicted in  FIGS. 14A-B ). In particular, the 3D air mesh layer  1414  may have a thickness that is at least two times greater than any one, any combination, or all of fleece layer  1410 , absorbent layer  1412 , and waterproof layer  1416  (e.g., in one embodiment, 3D air mesh layer  1414 , having multiple layers of fabric sewn together, may be at least two times thicker than fleece layer  1410  and/or absorbent layer  1412 ). Alternatively, instead of (or in addition to) 3D air mesh layer  1414 , compressible foam may be used. 
     3D air mesh layer  1414  may result in one or more of the following benefits. First, 3D air mesh layer  1414  may act as a cushion resulting in the animal bedding being softer. In this regard, 3D air mesh layer  1414  is an example of a cushion layer. This may be beneficial in that the animal bedding is more comfortable for guinea pigs and better for the guinea pigs&#39; joints (e.g., more comfortable bedding may be beneficial for older guinea pigs that already suffer from joint problems and for younger guinea pigs to avoid future joint problems). Second, 3D air mesh layer  1414  may provide further rigidity for the animal bedding, so that the animal bedding may keep its shape during washing (e.g., the absorbent layer  1412 , which may be composed of bamboo and comprise a bamboo layer or a bamboo blend layer, may tend to shrink; the 3D air mesh layer  1414  may counteract that tendency). Third, cleaning may be easier with 3D air mesh layer  1414 . As one example, 3D air mesh layer  1414 , with its holes therein, may create an air gap, which may help with the washing and the drying of the absorbent layer  1412 . As another example, the air gap created by 3D air mesh layer  1414  may assist in drying of urine (e.g., because of the air gap, urine may dry quicker and may spread better, thereby potentially reducing the smell). 
     3D air mesh layer  1414  may be connected to any one, any combination, or all of fleece layer  1410 , absorbent layer  1412  and waterproof layer  1416  in one of several ways. In one way, stitching  1420  may connect 3D air mesh layer  1414  to all of fleece layer  1410 , absorbent layer  1412  and waterproof layer  1416 . Alternatively, or in addition, stitching may connect 3D air mesh layer  1414  to one or both of the fleece layer  1410  and the absorbent layer  1412  ( FIG. 14A  illustrates that stitching  1422  attaches 3D air mesh layer  1414  to both of fleece layer  1410  and absorbent layer  1412 ; in contrast,  FIG. 14B  illustrates that stitching  1452  does not attach 3D air mesh layer  1414  to both of fleece layer  1410  and absorbent layer  1412 ). Further, in one embodiment, a gap is present on one or both sides of 3D air mesh layer  1414  (e.g.,  FIG. 14A  illustrates a gap on a first side of 3D air mesh layer  1414  facing absorbent layer  1412  and on a second side facing waterproof layer  1416 ). Alternatively, a gap is not present on either side of 3D air mesh layer  1414 . 
     Any one, any combination, or all of the fleece layer  1410 , the absorbent layer  1412 , the 3D air mesh layer  1414 , the waterproof layer  1416  or a pocket (such as illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) may be coated with an antimicrobial agent or solution. As discussed above, guinea pigs may be vulnerable to bacterial infection. As such, an antimicrobial agent may be added to one or more of the layers, such as the absorbent layer  1412  (and potentially to the fleece layer  1410  and/or to the 3D air mesh layer  1414 ). An example of an antimicrobial agent comprises SILVADUR™ from DuPont. See https://www.dupontnutritionandbiosciences.com/silvadur.html. Other an antimicrobial agents are contemplated. The antimicrobial agent may be applied by padding, exhaustion, printing, or spray application, such as during the manufacture of the absorbent layer  1412 . 
     Waterproof layer  1416  may be waterproof on one or more its sides. In one or some embodiments, waterproof layer  1416  may be waterproof (or water resistant) on only one side, such as by applying a laminate (e.g., PUL) on the side that faces 3D air mesh layer  1414  (whether or not there are intervening layers between 3D air mesh layer  1414  and waterproof layer  1416 ). Alternatively, waterproof layer  1416  may be waterproof on only two of its sides. In particular, a laminate may be applied to both sides of the waterproof layer  1416 , such as the one side facing 3D air mesh layer  1414  and the opposite side (e.g., the side that contacts the ground). Still alternatively, waterproof layer  1416  may be waterproof on all of its sides. 
       FIG. 14B  is a side cross-sectional view  1450  of another example of animal bedding illustrating the fleece layer  1410 , the absorbent layer  1412 , the 3D air mesh layer  1414 , and the waterproof layer  1416 , with the fleece layer  1410  and the absorbent layer  1412  (but not the 3D air mesh layer  1414 ) stitched together with stitching  1452  so that a pattern is present on the top surface of the fleece layer  1410 . Thus,  FIG. 14B  differs from  FIG. 14A  in that stitching  1422  stitches each of the fleece layer  1410 , the absorbent layer  1412 , the 3D air mesh layer  1414  together whereas stitching  1452  stitches the fleece layer  1410  and the absorbent layer  1412  together but not the 3D air mesh layer  1414 . 
     Though not illustrated in  FIGS. 14A-B , in one or some embodiments, a pocket may be included (such as illustrated in  FIG. 1 ). As discussed above, the pocket may be less than half the surface area of the top layer (such as half the surface of fleece layer  1410 ). The pocket may be attached to the top layer (such as fleece layer  1410 ) along one or more side of the pocket (such as along three of the sides of the pocket) via stitching  1420 . Alternatively, no pocket is included. 
     As discussed above, various parts of the animal bedding may be attached together. In one embodiment, the attachment of two parts may be permanent (or semi-permanent) and designed so that the end-user does not detach the two parts. An example of such an attachment comprises stitching. Alternatively, the attachment may comprise a connection device that is composed of two parts and may be designed so that the end-user can detach the two parts and then re-attach the two parts. An example of such an attachment that is a connection device comprises a zipper, clasp snap buttons, or other type of binding device used to bind edges of parts of the animal bedding together. As discussed in more detail below, for cleaning, the end-user may detach the two parts and clean one or both of the parts separately. For example, the animal bedding may be composed (or consist) of a first part and a second part, with the first part and the second part being attached together via a zipper (or the like). In the case of a zipper, the attachment may include two mating pieces, such as a first set of teeth and a second set of teeth that are made to interdigitate thereby linking the first set of teeth with the second set of teeth. In order to bind the first part with the second part using the zipper, the first set of teeth may be sewn into the edge of the first part (such as along an entire perimeter or along substantially the entire perimeter of the edge of the first part) and the second set of teeth may be sewn into the edge of the second part (such as along an entire perimeter or along substantially the entire perimeter of the edge of the second part). In this way, the zipper (which acts as an attachment) is configured to attach the first part to the second part in one configuration such that the first part and the second part are a unitary device (e.g., when the first set of teeth and the second set of teeth interlink) and to detach the first part from the second part in another configuration such that the first part and the second part are disconnected from one another. In this regard, the zipper comprises a different type of attachment than stitching. 
       FIGS. 15A-17  illustrate various forms of the first part and the second part of the animal bedding, with  FIGS. 15A-C  illustrating the first part,  FIGS. 16A-C  illustrating the second part, and  FIG. 17  illustrating both the first part and the second part connected to one another. In particular,  FIG. 15A  is a front perspective view  1500  of a first part of the animal bedding, with a pocket  1510  covering part of the top surface of the top layer  1520  of the first part of the animal bedding (an example of the top surface of the top layer  1520  is shown at  1716  in  FIG. 17 ), with a set of teeth  1522  for one part of a zipper, and with the top layer  1520  including a diamond stitching pattern. Set of teeth  1522  may be connected (e.g., stitched or glued) to one, some or all of the layers of the first part. In practice, the guinea pig may sit on the top surface of the top layer  1520  (e.g., may burrow underneath the pocket  1510  while on the top surface of the top layer  1520 ). An example of the top layer  1520  is fleece layer  1710 , discussed below with regard to  FIG. 17 . 
       FIG. 15B  is a bottom perspective view  1550  of the first part of the animal bedding, illustrating a bottom surface of the protective layer  1560  (an example of the bottom surface of the protective layer  1560  is surface  1718  of non-waterproof layer  1714  in  FIG. 17 ) and the set of teeth  1522  for the one part of a zipper. An example of the protective layer  1560  is non-waterproof layer  1714 , discussed below with regard to  FIG. 17 . 
       FIG. 15C  is one example of a cross-sectional view  1570  of A-A′ from  FIG. 15A . Pocket  1510  may be attached to top layer  1520 . As shown in  FIG. 15C , pocket  1510  is attached to each of top layer  1520 , absorbent layer  1580 , and protective layer  1560  via stitching  1572 . Alternatively, pocket  1510  is not included. In one embodiment, even without pocket  1510 , stitching  1572  is used to attach each of each of top layer  1520 , absorbent layer  1580 , and protective layer  1560  together. Alternatively, without pocket  1510 , stitching is not included as well. Separately, top layer  1520  and one or both of absorbent layer  1580  and protective layer  1560  may be connected via stitching. For example, each of top layer  1520 , absorbent layer  1580 , and protective layer  1560  may be connected via stitching  1574  (as illustrated in  FIG. 15C ), which may be separate from stitching  1572 . Further, protective layer  1560  includes bottom surface  1576 , which may face the second part of the animal bedding when connected via zipper  1578 . Zipper  1578  may be attached to the animal bedding in one or more places, such as to any one, any combination, or all of top layer  1520 , the absorbent layer  1580 , or the protective layer  1560 . As shown in  FIG. 15C , zipper  1578  is attached to the protective layer  1560 . The attachment of the zipper  1578  to any one, any combination, or all of top layer  1520 , the absorbent layer  1580 , or the protective layer  1560  may be in one of several ways, such as via glue, heat bonding, and/or stitching. 
       FIG. 15D  is another example of a cross-sectional view  1590  of A-A′ from  FIG. 15A . In contrast to  FIG. 15C , top layer  1520  is connected to absorbent layer  1580  but not to protective layer  1560  via stitching  1992 . 
       FIG. 16A  is a bottom perspective view  1600  of a second part of the animal bedding, with a bottom surface of the waterproof layer  1610  shown (an example of the surface of the waterproof layer  1610  is surface  1736  of waterproof layer  1730  in  FIG. 17 ), and with a set of teeth  1612  for a second part of a zipper designed to mate with the first part of the zipper shown in  FIGS. 15A-B  (e.g., set of teeth  1522  interlock with set of teeth  1612 ). Set of teeth  1612  may be connected (e.g., stitched or glued) to one, some or all of the layers of the second part. In one embodiment, waterproof layer  1610  includes multiple levels, such as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . Alternatively, waterproof layer  1610  includes a single level. 
     As shown, both set of teeth  1522  of the first part and set of teeth  1612  of the second part are entirely around (or substantially entirely around) a perimeter of each of the first part and the second part.  FIG. 16B  is a top perspective view  1650  of the second part of the animal bedding, illustrating the top surface of the waterproof layer  1610  (an example of the top surface of the waterproof layer  1610  is surface  1738  of waterproof layer  1730  in  FIG. 17 ) and the set of teeth  1612  for the second part of a zipper. It is noted that the waterproof layer illustrated in  FIGS. 16A-B  may comprise a multi-leveled structure, such as illustrated by waterproof layer  1730  in  FIG. 17  inside which resides a cavity. Alternatively, waterproof layer illustrated in  FIGS. 16A-B  may comprise a single-level structure (such as illustrated by bottom layer  140  in  FIG. 8 ). In this regard, any discussion regarding a layer may comprise a single-level structure or multi-level structure. 
       FIG. 17  is a side cross-sectional view of another example of animal bedding  1700  with two parts that are connected to one another via a zipper  1720 . The first part comprises fleece layer  1710 , absorbent layer  1712 , non-waterproof layer  1714 , and the first part of zipper  1720  (e.g., first set of teeth for the zipper  1720 ). The second part comprises waterproof layer  1730 , cushion layer  1732 , plastic board  1734 , and second part of zipper  1720  (e.g., the second set of teeth designed to interlock with the first set of teeth for the zipper  1720 ). Thus, the absorbent layer  1712 , which may comprise bamboo or a bamboo blend, of the first part may be separated from the second part, such as from the waterproof layer  1730  of the second part via one or more layers, such as non-waterproof layer  1714 . 
     Plastic board  1734  may be composed of any type of plastic, such as synthetic or semi-synthetic materials that use polymers as an ingredient (such as a main ingredient). Merely by way of example, plastic board  1734  may be composed of polyethylene. 
     As discussed above, a cushion layer (an example of which is 3D air mesh layer  1414 ) may be used so that the animal bedding may be more comfortable for guinea pigs and may be better for the guinea pigs&#39; joints. One example is cushion layer  1732 . Various examples of cushion layer  1732  are contemplated. As one example, cushion layer  1732  may comprise the 3D air mesh layer  1414  discussed above. Alternatively, or in addition, cushion layer  1732  may comprise one or more sponges (or one or more sponge layers), which may fill the cavity (apart from plastic board  1734  inserted therein). In one embodiment, a first sponge is placed on top of a second sponge, with at least one aspect of the first sponge being different from the second sponges. As one example, the first sponge may be any one, any combination, or all of softer, less dense, or less firm than the second sponge. In particular, the first sponge may comprise a Polyurethane (PU) foam and the second sponge may comprise a Polyethylene (PE) foam. In this way, the cushion layer  1732  may provide for shock absorbency for the animal. 
     As shown in  FIG. 17 , the cushion layer  1732  is positioned above plastic board  1734 . Alternatively, cushion layers may be on either side of plastic board  1734 , such as directly above and/or directly below plastic board  1734 , or above plastic board  1734  (with one or more intermediate layers) and/or below plastic board  1734  (with one or more intermediate layers). Cushion layer  1732  is different from plastic board  1734  in one or more aspects, such as in rigidity with plastic board  1734  being more rigid than cushion layer  1732  (e.g., cushion layer  1732  has more flexibility than plastic board  1734 ). 
     In one or some embodiments, waterproof layer  1730  comprises a multi-level structure and at least partly encircles one or both of cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734 . For example, waterproof layer  1730  may encircle at least on two sides of one or both of cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734 , at least on three sides of one or both of cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734 , or entirely encircle on all four sides of one or both of cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734 . 
     In particular, waterproof layer  1730  may comprise multiple levels to form a cavity contained therein. The cavity of the waterproof layer  1730  may include one or more internal cavity layers, such as a first interior cavity layer and a second interior cavity layer. In one or some embodiments, after inserting cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734  in the cavity (both of which may act as interior cavity layers), waterproof layer  1730  may be permanently sealed (e.g., by applying heat to melt the opening of the waterproof layer  1730  through which cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734  were inserted) such that no water may enter therein after permanent sealing. Alternatively, after inserting cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734  in the cavity, waterproof layer  1730  may be temporarily sealed (e.g., via a zipper closing the opening of the waterproof layer through which cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734  were inserted) such that no water may enter therein after temporary sealing. In one or some embodiments, one or both of cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734  are at least ¼ inch, at least ⅓ inch, or at least ½ inch. Thus, in one or some embodiments, the second part, which includes waterproof layer  1730 , cushion layer  1732  and plastic board  1734 , may comprise a plastic mat with a cushion and/or rigid layer therein. 
     As discussed above, one or more of the layers may be used to absorb liquid, such as urine. For example, absorbent layer  1712 , which may be composed of bamboo or a bamboo blend, may be used to absorb the liquid. However, when washing the animal bedding, such as washing in a washing machine, shrinkage of the layer(s), such as shrinkage of the absorbent layer  1412 ,  1712 , may occur. In order to reduce the potential for shrinkage, various types of animal bedding may be used in which one or more layers may be used as a protective layer to reduce shrinkage and/or to better maintain the shape of the animal bedding. In one or some embodiments, this protective layer may be in the form of a 3D mesh, such as 3D air mesh layer  1414 , whereby the rigidity of the 3D air mesh layer  1414  may maintain or stretch the absorbent layer, thereby reducing shrinkage. 
     Alternatively, or in addition, this protective layer may be in the form of non-waterproof layer  1714 . As mentioned above, shrinkage may occur during washing. In that regard, prior to washing the animal bedding, such as animal bedding  1700 , the animal bedding may be separated into the two separate parts (e.g., unzipping the animal bedding so that the first part and the second part are no longer connected). In this way, the first part and the second part may be reversibly attached and detached, with detaching allowing the first part and the second part to be cleaned separately and in different ways. For example, first part (illustrated in  FIGS. 15A-B ) may be cleaned in a washing machine, whereas second part (illustrated in  FIGS. 16A-B ) may be cleaned by wiping down the waterproof layer  1610  by hand with a disinfectant. Further, first part may likely need to be cleaned more often since it will become dirtier with urine/feces than second part. Therefore, first part alone may be cleaned more often than the second part, reducing wear on the second part. Because of this, the second part may be cleaned less than the first part, thereby lasting longer. Further, the animal bedding may last longer by only purchasing a new first part (after the original first part wears out from washing) without needing to purchase the second part, thereby being more ecologically friendly. In addition, because the first part is detached from the second part while cleaning, the first part may dry more quickly after removal from the washing machine. Finally, to the extent the first part may shrink from washing, when reattaching the second part to the first part (e.g., reconnecting the first part to the second part via the zipper), the second part, with the rigidity of plastic board  1734 , may stretch the first part to the extent any layer of the first part (such as absorbent layer  1712 ) may have shrunk. 
     As discussed above, a protective layer, such as non-waterproof layer  1714 , may be used to protect the absorbent layer  1712 . The protective layer may abut absorbent layer  1712  on one side (such as illustrated in  FIG. 17 ). Alternatively, one or more intermediate layers may be in between the protective layer and the absorbent layer  1712 . 
     The non-waterproof layer  1714  may be composed of any one or both of polyester (or other synthetic fiber) or cotton. For example, in one embodiment, the non-waterproof layer may comprise a thin cotton fabric, such as a thin fleece made with or without cotton. In particular, the thin fleece may have a lower gsm, such as less than 100 gsm, less than 200 gsm, or the like. 
     The protective layer may assist both when the first part and the second part are attached to one another and when the first part is detached from the second part. When the first part and the second part are connected, even if the absorbent layer  1712  absorbs liquid, the protective layer may also be able to transmit liquids, such as urine, that passes from the absorbent layer  1712  so that the liquid sits on top of the waterproof layer  1730 . When the first part and the second part are disconnected in order to wash the first part, the protective layer (e.g., the non-waterproof layer  1714 ) may protect the absorbent layer  1712  during the washing and/or drying process. The absorbent layer  1712  may include batting, so that without the non-waterproof layer  1714  as protection, the absorbent layer  1712  may be damaged in the washing process. 
       FIG. 18A  is a second example of a front perspective view  1800  of a first part of the animal bedding reversibly attached to a second part of the animal bedding using a zipper  1812 , with a pocket  1810  covering part of the top layer of the first part of the animal bedding, with a set of teeth for one part of a zipper, and with the top layer including a diamond stitching pattern  1814 . As discussed above, various types of connections may reversibly attach the first part to the second part including any one, any combination, or all of: one or more zippers; one or more buttons; one or more strips of Velcro (or other type of hook-and-fastener, such as a first component featuring tiny hooks and a second component for mating with the first component featuring smaller loops); or one or more magnets. 
       FIG. 18B  is a cross-section  1850  of a part of the animal bedding shown in  FIG. 18A .  FIG. 18B  is an illustration when the first part and the second part are reversibly connective together. As shown in  FIG. 18A, 1852  may comprise a fleece pocket,  1854  may comprise a fleece upper layer (shown in  FIG. 18A ),  1856  may comprise a layer of any one, any combination, or all of: bamboo (e.g., for an absorbent layer); bamboo blend; cotton; cotton blend; synthetic (e.g., polyester); or synthetic blend, and  1858  may act as a protective layer to layer  1856  and may comprise any one, any combination, or all of: cotton; cotton blend; synthetic; or synthetic blend. In one or some embodiments, the first part may comprise any one, any combination, or all of:  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 , or  1858 . As one example, the first part may or may not include pocket  1852 . As another example, in one embodiment, the first part may include each of layers  1854 ,  1856 , and  1858  (with or without pocket  1852 ). Further, in such an embodiment, stitching  1870  may stitch layer  1854  with one or both of layers  1856  and  1858 . 
     In the embodiment where layers  1854  and  1856  are present (but not  1858 ) and where the pocket is present (e.g., layer  1852 ), the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 . Alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 . Still alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 . Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 . 
     In one embodiment in which no pocket (e.g., layer  1852 ) and layer  1858  is present, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Still alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . 
     Alternatively, the first part may include only  1854  and  1856  (without  1858 ) and with or without pocket  1852 . In such an embodiment, layer  1854  may be composed of cotton or fleece and layer  1856  may be composed of a synthetic material (e.g., fleece), a synthetic blended with cotton, a cotton material, or the like. Further, layers  1854  and  1856  may be stitched together via stitching  1870 . 
     As discussed above, layer  1860  may comprise flexible synthetic material (e.g., vinyl or polyvinyl chloride), layer  1862  may comprise a cushion, layer  1864  may comprise a rigid synthetic material (e.g., Poly Ethylene, Poly Propylene (PP), and Poly Ethylene Terephthalate (PET), and layer  1866  may comprise a flexible synthetic material identical to layer  1860 . The first part, when unzipped to the second part, includes layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . The second part, when unzipped to the first part, includes layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866 . 
     In one embodiment, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Still alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers  1852 ,  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . 
     In one embodiment in which no pocket is present, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately two times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately three times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Still alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately four times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . Yet alternatively, the thickness of layers  1860 ,  1862 ,  1864 ,  1866  may be exactly or approximately five times the thickness of layers  1854 ,  1856 ,  1858 . 
       FIG. 19A  is a top perspective view  1900  of the second part of the animal bedding with a plurality of snaps or buttons  1910  for connection to mating snaps or buttons  1960  on the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 19B . As shown, the snaps or buttons  1910  may be distributed (such as evenly distributed) on the n-sided (such as 4-sided as shown in  FIG. 19A ) structure. In one embodiment, the snaps or buttons  1910  are on each of the n-sided structure, such as on each of the 4 sides of the 4-sided structure. Alternatively, the snaps or buttons  1910  are on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the 4-sided structure or such as on only three sides the 4-sided structure. 
       FIG. 19B  is a bottom perspective view  1950  of the first part of the animal bedding with a plurality of snaps or buttons  1960  for a mating connection to the snaps or buttons  1910  on the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 19A . As shown, the snaps or buttons  1960  may be distributed (such as evenly distributed) on the n-sided (such as 4-sided as shown in  FIG. 19B ) structure. Since snaps or buttons  1960  are to mate with snaps or buttons  1910 , in one embodiment, the snaps or buttons  1960  are on each of the n-sided structure, such as on each of the 4 sides of the 4-sided structure. Alternatively, the snaps or buttons  1960  are on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the 4-sided structure or such as on only three sides the 4-sided structure. 
       FIG. 20A  is a top perspective view  2000  of the second part of the animal bedding with Velcro  2010  for connection to the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 20B . Velcro is an example of hook-and-loop fasteners, hook-and-pile fasteners, touch fasteners, slidingly engaging fasteners, etc. In one or some embodiments, Velcro includes a first component (put on one of the first part or the second part) featuring tiny hooks, and a second component (put on the other of the first part or the second part) featuring smaller loops. When the first component and the second component are pressed together the hooks catch in the loops and the two pieces fasten or bind temporarily. When separated, by pulling or peeling the two surfaces apart, the strips make a distinctive ripping sound. As shown, the Velcro  2010  may be positioned along a respective edge of the 4-sided structure. Further, in one embodiment, the Velcro  2010  is on each side of the n-sided structure, such as on each side of the 4-sided structure. Alternatively, the Velcro  2010  is on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the 4-sided structure or such as on only three sides the 4-sided structure. In addition, in one embodiment, the Velcro  2010  is along an entire side of a respective side of the n-sided structure and on each of the sides, as shown in  FIG. 20A . Alternatively, the Velcro  2010  is along less than an entire side of the respective side of the n-sided structure (e.g., along no more than 50% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 60% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 70% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 80% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 90% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 95% of the length of the respective side). 
       FIG. 20B  is a bottom perspective view  2050  of the first part of the animal bedding with Velcro  2160  for a mating connection to the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 20A . As discussed above, one of the first part (illustrated in  FIG. 20B ) or the second part (illustrated in  FIG. 20A ) includes the first component of the Velcro and the other of the first part (illustrated in  FIG. 20B ) or the second part (illustrated in  FIG. 20A ) includes the second component of the Velcro. Further, similar to  FIG. 20A , since the Velcro  2060  is to mate with the Velcro  2010 , the Velcro  2060  may be positioned along a respective edge of the 4-sided structure. Further, in one embodiment, the Velcro  2060  is on each side of the n-sided structure, such as on each side of the 4-sided structure. Alternatively, the Velcro  2060  is on fewer than all sides of the n-sided structure, such as on only two sides the 4-sided structure or such as on only three sides the 4-sided structure. In addition, in one embodiment, the Velcro  2060  is along an entire side of a respective side of the n-sided structure and on each of the sides, as shown in  FIG. 20B . Alternatively, the Velcro  2060  is along less than an entire side of the respective side of the n-sided structure (e.g., along no more than 50% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 60% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 70% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 80% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 90% of the length of the respective side; along no more than 95% of the length of the respective side). 
       FIG. 21A  is a top perspective view  2100  of the second part of the animal bedding with a plurality of magnets ( 2180  shown in  FIG. 21C ) for connection to the first part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 21B . For example, a plurality of magnets of a first polarity may be positioned on (or within) the first part (shown in  FIG. 21B ) and a plurality of magnets of second polarity opposite the first polarity may be positioned on (or within) the second part (shown in  FIG. 21A ). Stitching  2110  is shown where the magnets are sewn into the interior of the second part (depicted in  FIG. 21A ). Again, alternatively, the magnets may be placed on the surface of the second part (rather than put in the interior of the second part). 
       FIG. 21B  is a bottom perspective view  2150  of the first part of the animal bedding with opposite polarity of a plurality of magnets for connection to the second part of the animal bedding illustrated in  FIG. 21A . Stitching  2160  is shown where the magnets are sewn into the interior of the first part (depicted in  FIG. 21B ). Again, alternatively, the magnets may be placed on the surface of the first part (rather than put in the interior of the first part). 
       FIG. 21C  is a cross-section  2170  of the second part of the animal bedding shown in  FIG. 21A . As discussed above, a plurality of layers may be included in the second part, such as illustrated in  FIG. 18B . Further, a magnet  2180  may be embedded into of the layers, such as any one, any combination, or all of: layers  1860 ;  1862 ;  1864 ; or  1866 . As shown in  FIG. 21C , the magnet  2180  is included or embedded in cushion layer  1862 . Stitching  2190  may be used to secure magnet  2180  into the respective layer. 
       FIG. 21D  is a cross-section  2192  of the first part of the animal bedding shown in  FIG. 21B . As discussed above, a plurality of layers may be included in the first part, such as illustrated in  FIG. 18B . Further, a magnet  2192  may be embedded into of the layers, such as any one, any combination, or all of: layers  1854 ;  1856 ;  1858 ; or  1860 . As shown in  FIG. 21D , the magnet  2194  is included or embedded in layer  1856 . Stitching  2196  may be used to secure magnet  2194  into the respective layer. 
     The above-disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative, and not restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications, enhancements, and other embodiments, which fall within the true spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, to the maximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the present embodiments are to be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of the following claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted or limited by the foregoing detailed description. While various embodiments have been described, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible within the scope of the above detailed description. Accordingly, the embodiments are not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents.