Reptile Lover’s Thread!!

[CSAchook]

I have a question about leopard geckos and beardie substrate.. I know this is quite controversial, but I've always been confused about what the best substrate is for them. I see lots of people say that loose substrates like dirt and sand should be avoided as they can cause impaction, but I've also seen people keep them like that with no issues. My understanding is that it can be dangerous for babies, but it's safer for adults?
And of course people often use reptile carpet instead, but I've heard that nails can get caught on it, and it's like a breeding ground for bacteria.
Which is why lots of people go the safe route with paper towels.
But I've always wondered if there are any visually appealing and safe alternatives, or if certain loose substrates can be fine for them. What are y'alls thoughts on this?

I used to have Tad on sand but since switching to paper towels 2 years ago, I on can honestly say she is healthier for it. While she never suffered a serious impaction, she did sometimes get constipated. Since changing to paper towels though, she poops easier, more often, and has better appetite.

I think repticarpet (or just felt) is fine as long as you wash it well and frequently. I used that before with Hoshi.

The most aesthetic solid options are probably stone or ceramic tile. Tile and stone absorb heat which reptiles enjoy and can easily be cleaned with an enzyme cleaner. You just don’t want one that is too slippery. Slate is an ideal option. Personally, I am going to use a non slippery ceramic in Tad’s new enclosure whenever I get around to finishing it.

 

[CSAchook]

Okay good cause that’s everything I’m planning on doing too and I’m glad to know I’m on the right track hahah I just bought a thermostat today but I’m not sure if it’s a good one or not. I got the Zilla one. I might have to get a CHE as well since the basement is pretty cold usually. But it’s hard to know for sure though cause it’s forced air heat and I can close any of the 3 vents but also it only turns on when you turn it up. Like it heats up really fast then is off. So the issue is it’s either an ice box or a sauna with no in between so I don’t wanna like add extra heat and then have him roast, you know?

That is why I only add extra heat in winter. We all roast together in summer lol.

I recommend you also get a infrared heat gun to check temps in his tank. That will help you dial in the thermostat to the ideal setting and help you figure out if his cool side is getting too cold.

 

[ShrekDawg]

That is why I only add extra heat in winter. We all roast together in summer lol.

I recommend you also get a infrared heat gun to check temps in his tank. That will help you dial in the thermostat to the ideal setting and help you figure out if his cool side is getting too cold.

Oh yeah that’s a good idea!! I was reading about those but wasn’t sure if I should get that or the probe ones. I’ll find a gun thougv

 

[CSAchook]

Oh yeah that’s a good idea!! I was reading about those but wasn’t sure if I should get that or the probe ones. I’ll find a gun thougv

You can buy one pretty cheap on Amazon. And they are really helpful when getting things set up.

 

[ShrekDawg]

You can buy one pretty cheap on Amazon. And they are really helpful when getting things set up.

Thank you!!

 

[ShrekDawg]

I just ordered one

 

[ShrekDawg]

I bought these today too so we’ll see how well they work.

https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petco...ternational-disposable-tank-liners-repti-pads

 

[EverythingDucks]

I bought these today too so we’ll see how well they work.

https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petco...ternational-disposable-tank-liners-repti-pads

Oh, so they're like potty pads? Those would be perfect for quarantine setups too.

 

[Everose]

My most recent pic of Crazy legs/Creepy John/Reese's

He sits on the toes a lot

 

[ShrekDawg]

Oh, so they're like potty pads? Those would be perfect for quarantine setups too.

I think so! I almost wonder if puppy pads would work and maybe cheaper? Since they come in the huge quantities. But would have to be unscented I imagine which are hard to find.