The bark of fir trees is used to make Zoo Med’s Repti Bark. Because of its propensity to collect moisture and subsequently release it into the terrarium, this substrate is ideal for humidity-loving reptiles such as ball pythons.
However, pet owners may be wondering if this product is generally safe for ball pythons. This article will tackle whether it is safe for your pet.
This article has been reviewed by Dr. Gospel. Read more about our knowledge control process here.
Contents
Is Repti Bark Safe for Ball Pythons?
Repti Bark is made from fir trees’ barks. This substrate is great for ball pythons’ fond of humidity because of its ability to gather moisture and then release it into the terrarium.
It is generally safe if you don’t feed your pet in its enclosure with the Repti Bark in it.
It adds a tropical jungle appeal to your terrarium by being naturally ornamental, it may also be washed and reused, and it is reasonably priced!
Pros of Using Repti Bark for Ball Pythons
Here are the cons of using Repti Bark for ball pythons:
- 100% pure fir bark
- Washable and reusable – simply soak in hot water every 2-3 months for new and clean bark
- Smaller chunks make it harder for crickets to hide in the substrate.
- Gently releases moisture into the surroundings, making it a great substrate for ball pythons
- Not heat treated and retains more moisture
- Supports shedding and respiratory processes, natural burrowing and digging, and helps to imitate your pet’s native tropical habitat.
- Reasonably priced – costs $22.89
Cons of Using Repti Bark for Ball Pythons
Here are the cons of using Repti Bark for ball pythons:
- There is still the possibility of impaction.
- Potential carrier of bacteria and pathogens, especially if not cleaned
Alternatives to Repti Bark for Ball Python?
Aside from Repti Bark, you may use the following substrates alternatives for your pet ball python:
- Fine grade orchid bark
- Paper towels – absorbent, readily available, and easy to clean or replace
- Newspapers – readily available, usually free, and easy to clean or replace
- Carpeting – suitable and cheap but needs constant cleaning
- Artificial turf – sturdy, durable, easy to clean
- Cypress mulch – comfortable, retains humidity, attractive, not overwhelmingly smelly, cheap, and readily available
- Coconut fiber bedding – comfortable and has natural odor-fighting properties
Substrates to Avoid for Ball Pythons
You should also avoid utilizing certain substrate selections for your ball python. These substrates are either hazardous or can harm your ball python’s health. Ball pythons should avoid the following substrates:
- Cedar shavings or chips – toxic
- Redwood shavings or chips – toxic
- Highly scented pine/cedar/other wood shavings – hazardous when ingested due to the oils/phenols
- Sand – unsuitable for ball pythons, can cause impaction.
- Reptile carpet – only use if you don’t have any other options (paper towels/newspaper are preferable), retains bacteria, and is difficult to clean
- Alfalfa – readily molds and is dusty
- Walnut shells – poisonous if consumed and are quite sharp
- Gravel or stones – can cause impaction and are abrasive
- Corncob – irritates the intestines and can cause impaction
How Often Do You Replace Repti Bark?
Your pet bedding should be replaced every six months or as needed. Repti Bark can be used in combination with other substrates.
Some pet owners use Repti Bark with coconut husk or aspen shavings. They adequately retain moisture and are beneficial for ball pythons.
2-PACK Reptile Bark Fir Bedding, 4 Quarts
Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
ReptiChip Compressed Coconut Chip Substrate
- 🐍 CREATE A HEALTHY HABITAT for your ball python or iguana with ReptiChip Coconut Substrate for reptiles. Its superb humidity retention helps form a tropical paradise in turtle and reptile terrariums.
- 🐍 72-QUART COMPRESSED BRICK equals 10 lbs of safe, comfortable reptile bedding for professional breeders and serious hobbyists. Just add water to moisten and our pet snake substrate is ready to use.
- 🐍 ODOR-ABSORBING ReptiChip Coco Substrate encapsulates waste product, making your gecko, python or turtle bedding a healthy environment for your pet and ensuring your own home is pleasant-smelling.
- 🐍 100% ORGANIC coco chips are highly sustainable and earth-friendly. ReptiChip Breeder Block has been meticulously cleaned so it is a dust and dirt free hermit crab or ball python snake bedding.
- 🐍 VERSATILE BIOACTIVE SUBSTRATE can be used as reptile or tortoise bedding. Its multifunctionality makes it an essential addition to your ball python tank accessories and hermit crab supplies.
Last update on 2022-12-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
In Short
ReptiBark® by Zoo Med has been widely used by ball python owners. They swear by it due to its capacity to retain moisture in the enclosure.
However, you still have over one choice substrate for your pet ball python from the article Ball Python Substrate: How To Choose The Best?. Hope this article has been helpful!