I understand why you think that, but the fact of the matter is I can in fact afford to buy both proper food and bedding.

The fact remains my food choice takes a long time to negatively impact said rodents, and they will not live long enough to see the negative side effects. So if there is no difference in health whatsoever why would I intentionally pay more than necessary? It just doesnt make sense. And yes, the price is nice. But that does not and will not undermine my point.

As far as being able to afford bedding everyone on this site will go the less expensive option when they can. I attempted to use the cheapest option and with the advice of other users determined it was more worth it to provide the more expensive substrate that I am currently using.

Believe me I wouldnt be in this hobby if I could very literally not afford to provide my animals with the necessary means to live. I dont see your statement as a personal attack, but I cant help but think that the statement is arrogant, presumptious, and borderline ignorant. I re-read through the entire thread before responding to this, and have come to the conclusion that nowhere did I ever say or insinuate that I would not do what was necessary to make this work, and successfully provide positive conditions for every single animal I bring into my home. Ideal scenario, or not.