Looking for a new substrate...

SnFoil

New Member
Messages
4
Location
Missouri
So back in the day(actually not too long ago), I was perusing my local reptile shop when I found the one. The perfect leopard gecko. So I did some research and found out what I needed to buy. That's when I went back and purchased the items(including her). The employees there said that since she was only around 7 months old, that I shouldn't use a substrate like a coconut fiber, but instead use a mat. I was sort of reluctant to the idea because I personally don't like the look of the mat, but I was willing to do whatever necessary to keep my gecko as healthy as possible. So I was wondering if:

1) was it just a way for them to get more money?
2) is it actually true and I should stick to the mat?
3) when, if at all, should/can I switch to a more natural looking substrate?

Thanks!
 

Neon Aurora

New Member
Messages
1,376
Location
New Mexico
It's best not to use loose substrates with leopard geckos. They're pretty prone to becoming impacted and is an unnecessary risk, IMO. That said, you don't have to use a mat. There are solid options that look nice. Slate tile, excavator clay (hardens when it dries), and some people have even done complex things with carving styrofoam and coating it in grout.
 

acpart

Geck-cessories
Staff member
Messages
15,118
Location
Somerville, MA
I use ceramic tile and find it works well. Do a search in the forums here for "bioactive" and you'll find a long thread by someone who has set up a naturalistic leo enclosure.

Aliza
 

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