what substrate should i use

[baller]

Hi, I just got a ball python about 2 weeks ago and he has been eating great. I use this sand substrate called repti-sand or something like that and it is suppose to be full of calcium so my ball can eat it with the mouse. The problem is that this sand cost 10.00 for a small bag and is kind of hard to clean. What other substrates can i use that my ball can eat on and not get respiratory diseases or mouth rot. I was looking into astro turf but want something more attractive. Thankyou for any help.

Steven

[tHeGiNo]

Do not use sand with your BP! Not only is it sand, but its a bunch of bull that stuff does not dissolve in their stomaches, I tried myself. What you can use if your worried about impactions is coconut fibres. You can pick up a 3 pack of Eco Earth by Zoomed for like 12 bucks, an amazing deal :D

[baller]

Actually I just went on the Petsmart website and it was 5.00 for a 3 pack but I still want to know if astro-turf was the better option. It costs 2.00 each and I can get two that lasts for about a year.

[Tim_Cranwill]

If you are looking for a cheap and clean substrate that won't harbor bacteria, then use paper towel or news print. If you are also concerned about the appearance, use shredded aspen.

[TardGirl]

I use reptile bark from petsmart. It works great and looks good in the cage. It's about $8.00 or$9.00 for i think 8 dry quarts. It last me for about 3 months, Then i go and buy some more.

[tHeGiNo]

Yes shredded aspen is a good choice, however he said something which allows for no chance of an impaction.

[remsin76]

i think if the prey is kept dry none of the aspen would stick on it.
but i've been too worried about mouth rot so i ahvent used it before. any one ever avtually have problem with aspen giving their balls mouth rot?

i have like unlimited amounts of that stuff in my basement unopened leftover from my dead guinea pig that i ahve no use for.

[baller]

Ok thanks for the help ill either get the repti-bark or astro-turf.

Steven

[tHeGiNo]

Remsin, you are right about it being safe while dry. It is just the possibility of impaction that makes people use such substrate as newspaper and papertowl.

[remsin76]

i still wouldnt rish it though cause mouth rot is a pain in the *** man. i think the stuff at petsmart is a good deal it costs 1/3 iof the price than a regular store like petland. im gonna stock up.