Perplexed???

[MorphMaster]

So recently I have been deciding the proper bedding as I am within 6 months to a year to my first ball python pairing(s). Figured unprinted newspaper seemed very logical for it's cost effectiveness, as well as health issues: mites, abscesses in hemipenes, etc. But an ethical argument states that it isn't natural. I do understand that,but again, I want healthy snakes. I would love to hear opinions even though, it'll probably make it more difficult for me.

[Skittles1101]

Living in plastic tubs and fish tanks isn't natural either. Do whatever works for you. I prefer newspaper, I don't even get the unprinted stuff. My snakes don't seem to care either way.

[MorphMaster]

Living in plastic tubs and fish tanks isn't natural either. Do whatever works for you. I prefer newspaper, I don't even get the unprinted stuff. My snakes don't seem to care either way.

Actually, that helped a lot. Didn't think of that argument as I'm on the newspaper side, and my business partner is for bedding. I really appreciate it

[Skittles1101]

No problem, people who use that argument are kidding themselves. Plastic hides and tubs and water dishes aren't natural, so why go nuts with bedding if newspaper is easier simply because it "isn't natural" lol.

And how about giants dangling dead rodents? lol

[MorphMaster]

No problem, people who use that argument are kidding themselves. Plastic hides and tubs and water dishes aren't natural, so why go nuts with bedding if newspaper is easier simply because it "isn't natural" lol.

Exactly what I have been saying. Never really went into the actual artificial items the regular person uses

[Mike41793]

Ball pythons on this continent isnt natural.
Ive tried all kinds of substrates. I have found ZERO difference in my snakes behavior/personality. Ive also found newspaper to be one of the easiest. Plus i hate wasting stuff and feel like im recycling when i use it.

[Lazarus1437]

newspaper all the way!

[Herp_Herp_hooray]

Newspaper here..

[John1982]

But an ethical argument states that it isn't natural. I do understand that,but again, I want healthy snakes. I would love to hear opinions even though, it'll probably make it more difficult for me.

If you want to justify not being 100% "natural", you aren't throwing any predators in with your snakes making them fend for themselves either. Ball pythons don't dig their own burrows, they utilize what is given to them by nature. You as the owner provide them with the same opportunities(plastic hides, temperature gradients, hot spots, food, etc). I doubt they give two hoots where these things come from or what they're made of so long as their basic needs are met.