Hemp Substrate?

[Razaiel]

I wonder if this is OK for snakes - I have my hognose on it because when I bought the bark chips they had a strong smell of something so I took them back. I've been reading around the place and found a forum which advises always feeding snakes outside of their viv to avoid them accidentally ingesting the substrate (whatever it may be) as it could cause impaction. So I'm now a bit worried about this with the hemp (as it's loose) and also Emily (BP's) bark chip substrate. I think I might put some sheeting down around the feeding area in the viv when I feed them as I have noticed that the loose stuff does sometimes stick to the rodent.

[frankykeno]

We feed ours in their enclosures Raz, but they are on a fine aspen bedding so we've never found reason to worry about any tiny pieces being ingested. I've seen quite a few discussions here about the snake's digestion being more than strong enough for the occasional tiny bit of substrate as they regularily digest bone, teeth, hair, etc. However if you feel it's needed then by all means put down a pad of newspaper or something over the loose substrate. We did that for awhile with Rionach and Kyna till we felt more confident about this issue of substrate ingestion. Also if the prey is dry it's not as likely to have substrate sticking to it I would think.

[tigerlily]

I'm in complete agreement with what Jo said. I use aspen, but not the finely shredded kind. I've seen a piece of it go down every now and then, and I've never had an issue with impaction. (nor do I soak) As she said, if you are concerned use a paper plate or a paper towel. (and the drier the rodent is, the less bedding will stick)

About the hemp. If it has a very strong odor, then I would be hesitant to use it.

[daniel1983]

.....whats the price on hemp bedding? where do you get it from?....

[Razaiel]

I haven't seen aspen here in the UK (where I live) but it may exist somewhere - but the hemp sounds similar kind of stuff. It costs £3.95 approx for a bag that is enough for a 3ft viv.

I actually laid Noodle (hognose) on top of a teatowel yesterday when I fed her - to make sure she didn't accidentally ingest anything - worry wort that I am

[Colin Vestrand]

i hear using hemp may cause your snake to get red eyes, eat more frequently, and possibly get a lazy streak going.