![]() It’s dandy if applied on top of food as a calcium supplement occasionally, but as a substrate, it can cause dehydration and irritating. It’s composed of calcium carbonate – basically crushed antacid tablets. ![]() Silicosis is a disease of the lungs that develops after repeated exposure to silica dust. Silica sand and play sand can cause irritation of eyes, nasal passages, skin between scales, and even silicosis. Sand is another enemy of snake health and safety. Within the confines of an enclosure, especially one with solid sides such as an aquarium/terrarium, the pet cannot escape the fumes from cedar shavings, and the phenols and acids this material releases will eventually erode the lining of the lungs and trachea. But this can cause damage to the skin and respiratory systems of caged animals. The volatile oils, known as phenols are responsible for that clean fresh pine scent. There is a reason that this material smells nice to humans, but repels fleas and moths. One material that should absolutely never be used is cedar. This material is also highly irritating to a snake’s skin and constant contact can result in abrasions and ulcerations. The problem with this is that those sharp little particles can cause serious intestinal damage if ingested. Materials that clump upon exposure to moisture will stick to reptile tongues and eyes and even get into food. Never Use These Substrates for Ball Pythons and Other Snakesįirst, stay away from pet toilet products that are advertised as clumping or scoopable such as clay kitty litter (which often contains clumping agents like bentonite and silica). Let’s get these out of the way first and then discuss ideal materials. ![]() There are also some options that should never be used. There are many safe and affordable substrates on the market online, in pet stores, or even in your local garden department. If the snake is a tropical species, such as a rainbow boa that requires high humidity, there are certain substrates that will work for this species better than they would work for a ball python, who require lower ambient humidity. The ideal substrate for pet snakes can depend on several factors.
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