How do I heat a Vision Cage model 332...

[NYCball]

I've found many articles on this topic, and most have conflicting opinions.

I know that the Vision cages are made of HDPE (high density polyethylene). Many of the UTH pads say that they're not for use on plastics.

How do I safely create a warm spot for my ball python in this cage? Is there a safe UTH? Should I use a ceramic heat lamp?

Thanks in advance,

[Snagrio]

CHEs are generally used for ambient temperatures, so you'll still need a UTH. You can help buffer the heat by placing a layer of heat-resistant tape between the bottom of the cage and the heat mat. What's more, any heating element should be connected to a thermostat on principle to keep temperatures stable (in which case make sure the probe is between the heat pad and the cage bottom).

With that in mind, the melting point of HDPE is around 250 degrees F. At most the heat pad will be about a 100-105 degrees (the warm spot of BPs is ideally 90 but some heat is lost from the heat pad having to go through the cage floor). So with a thermostat and a little extra padding there shouldn't be an issue.