Quote Originally Posted by Amy1217
I have always been told not to becuase i use Aspen substrate, and they could possibly ingest that, and there is a chance that they will think you are food next time you go into their enclosures. I could be wrong, but i have always taken mine out, and they have always fed. I have never had a problem with them not eating though, so i dont have too much room to talk here...just what i have been told by others.
All of mine are on aspen, and they do ingest some on occassion - but their stomachs are designed to digest fur, bones and teeth - a little aspen doesn't stand a chance.

As far as them thinking you are food when you go into their enclosure, that's a myth. I wouldn't dare consider handling any of mine on feeding, but any other day, they are just fine. As long as you don't have the scent of prey on your hands, and you are going into their enclosure for routine cage maintenance and water changing, they won't make that association.

Routines are very important too. My crew know what day and what time of day is feeding time. I also feed in the same order each week.

If feeding in a separate enclosure works for you - then there's no need to change that! Just wanted to dispel some concerns you had!