Substrate ingestion (aspen)

[Mike Schultz]

So I'm using the kaytee aspen bedding because it comes in big big bags for pretty cheap.

What I was wondering is when my snake(s) actually eat a little bit of it, will it cause any problems?

I've heard that its not a big deal but I want some reassurance. I havent had a problem yet (they poop quite fine) but I want to make sure that its oK for them to eat a wood flake once in a while by mistake...

[Inknsteel]

It'll be fine. If you're worried about it, lay down a sheet of paper on the substrate when you feed. But they don't get a nice, clean dinner plate in the wild, so ingesting a little substrate now and then happens.

[stormwulf133]

As Adam of 8ballpythons told me, they are design to digest hair and bone. He had never heard any impaction. Brian of BHB also said that its a non issue. Basically all the breeders I have talked to have never heard of it being an issue.

[rishnack]

yeah i wouldnt worry about it, sometimes it gets stuck in there mouth , but they usually get it out on there own

[deadmouse]

Seen lots of balls eat lots of aspen over the years without any problems.

[RoyalGuardian]

I my self have heard of a compaction but it very rarely if you really keep your snakes cage clean. I myself pity that ball python.. it was my boyfriends brothers back when he was going to highschool. I didn't know him back them but he told me the story... I don't doutb that the snake did die of a compaction cause the guy wont even take baths every week. i know its aweful! he is so gross.... but I love my boyfriend..ALOT!.. So no starting stuff with his family.

[TMoore]

BPs can digest an entire mouse/rat with out any problem. A little substrate every once in a while is nothing compared to bone.