Straw is a soft, dry stalks containing small grains such as barley, oats, rice, rye, and wheat.[7] Straw is easy to handle and available in most agricultural areas. When deciding to use straw, is imperative to make sure that the straw is not palatable. To do this, the seed must be checked to ensure it is not available for consumption.[7] Straw has excellent absorbency and is unlikely to mold.[2][7]