tonyperkins203
New Member
- Messages
- 11
- Location
- Illinois
I have to admit, I have a hard time understanding the sand vs. safer substrate argument.
As a pet owner, my most important responsibility is to keep my animal safe from dangers that can affect their health.
Considering the evidence of leo's becoming impacted from sand, I wouldn't dream of using it. I care too much for my Leo and its not worth the risk.
I won't use carpet because of the slight risk that a toe could get caught and cause harm. Carpet can also get worn out, lose it shape from repeated washing, and must be replaced from time to time. It can also harbor bacteria if not kept clean. I think it can be a good choice, much better than sand, but is not as easy to maintain as tile.
Paper towel is a perfect substrate with only one exception. If you want to achieve a natural look, it's not what you are looking for. However, it is disposable, easy to work with, and safe.
For me, tile is the perfect substrate. Most people recommend slate tile, because it conducts heat well. It can also absorb urate, so most people recommend sealing it before using it. I use porcelain tile. It comes in many colors and finishes, and is dense and glazed already making it maintenance free. I have also found that porcelain tile conducts heat very well, so I don't feel like I need to make a change to slate to get better heat conduction. It's easy to clean, lasts forever, and is cheap. I bought 10 6x6 tiles for my 20 gallon long enclosure for $8.00 at Home Depot. It covers the entire floor and I didn't have to make any cuts. My Leo loves laying on it in the warm spot, it looks good, I'll never have to buy more, and it is easily removed and cleaned. Best of all, I don't have to worry about the off chance that it will cause a problem with my Leo. Completely safe.
Just my two cents. I realize that we all have our opinion on the matter and that there has been a ton of controversy. I'm not willing to engage in this stuff. Do what you want. It's your Leo. Considering the available options for substrate, I simply feel that tile is the safest and most practical.
As a pet owner, my most important responsibility is to keep my animal safe from dangers that can affect their health.
Considering the evidence of leo's becoming impacted from sand, I wouldn't dream of using it. I care too much for my Leo and its not worth the risk.
I won't use carpet because of the slight risk that a toe could get caught and cause harm. Carpet can also get worn out, lose it shape from repeated washing, and must be replaced from time to time. It can also harbor bacteria if not kept clean. I think it can be a good choice, much better than sand, but is not as easy to maintain as tile.
Paper towel is a perfect substrate with only one exception. If you want to achieve a natural look, it's not what you are looking for. However, it is disposable, easy to work with, and safe.
For me, tile is the perfect substrate. Most people recommend slate tile, because it conducts heat well. It can also absorb urate, so most people recommend sealing it before using it. I use porcelain tile. It comes in many colors and finishes, and is dense and glazed already making it maintenance free. I have also found that porcelain tile conducts heat very well, so I don't feel like I need to make a change to slate to get better heat conduction. It's easy to clean, lasts forever, and is cheap. I bought 10 6x6 tiles for my 20 gallon long enclosure for $8.00 at Home Depot. It covers the entire floor and I didn't have to make any cuts. My Leo loves laying on it in the warm spot, it looks good, I'll never have to buy more, and it is easily removed and cleaned. Best of all, I don't have to worry about the off chance that it will cause a problem with my Leo. Completely safe.
Just my two cents. I realize that we all have our opinion on the matter and that there has been a ton of controversy. I'm not willing to engage in this stuff. Do what you want. It's your Leo. Considering the available options for substrate, I simply feel that tile is the safest and most practical.