Hello all,
I have been considering adding another lizard to my collection but am wanting to avoid insect eaters (my husband apparently has an aversion to keeping live bugs in the house).

After doing research, I think that a BTS might be a good option for me. That said, I have a few questions that I haven't been able to find specific answers to in the care sheets I've seen. Because BTS can live up to 20 years I want to make sure that I'm making the right choice and know what I'm getting into before buying one. No matter what i decide, I'll likely be waiting until next spring to purchase, so I'll have time to look for the right animal.

Questions:
How messy are they? Is their waste more like other lizards or similar to snakes (more solid)?

I've read that you can make their food (veggies, meat or cat food mixture) ahead of time and freeze it in portions then thaw to feed... Is this correct? Also, how often do you feed them?

I'm assuming a 4'x2'x12" cage would be sufficient.. What would be used for heating in such a cage? (RHP, heat tape, combo?) I am planning on stacking all of my cages, so I'd prefer not to use an overhead lamp for a hot spot.

If well fed, could a BTS go without food for up to a week (I'm thinking vacation here) Our pet sitter will change water, but generally doesn't feed the snakes. If this wouldn't work, that is not a deal-breaker.

Also, if you have any tips on good breeders or if there's a variety of BTS to avoid, please let me know. I have not seen any breeders online yet (only resellers like LLL, etc.) and would prefer to buy from a breeder.

Thanks everyone for your time!