Doesn't Like Hide

[robitza]

I just bought a new hide for Zeus, my 4 year old male. He loves it. Finally has something that his entire body will fit in. I gave his old hide to Chip, my 1 year old male. Chip stays on the other side of the enclosure and will not approach the hide. Could this be due to Zeus's smell still being on the hid? Or could it be due to it being larger that his old hide?

[Linds]

Did you thoroughly wash it before putting it in Chip's cage? Is there another hide that he is choosing the new one over, or is the new one his only choice? Is the new one a tight fit or very spacious?

Also, if you could please reduce your signature size to the maximum four line limit, it would be appreciated :cool:

[robitza]

Rinsed the hide after rubbing it with vinegar and water. I took out his hide and rplaced it with the larger one. The second hide is much larger than his normal one. I was thinking it was too big. But the one that he is currently using is a very tight fit. So much that he has marks on his flanks from the edges of the hide pressing against him.

[Linds]

Perhaps he is just choosing the ultra-secure hide. If the old one is leaving marks on him, I would recommend getting another one to replace it. They love tight-fitting hides, but you certainly don't want them marking up your snakes. Clay pots can be especially bad for this, even loose fitting ones :(