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I recently (a few months ago) switched substrates from aspen to newspaper. My ball has been spending the majority of its time curled up underneath the paper (as opposed to the hides). Today I noticed some black "smudges" on his belly. I assumed it was on the outside and tried to wipe it off unsuccessfully. It seems to be between the scales. Is this scale rot ( I realized that he may have urinated on the floor of the cage under the paper, and sat in it), and if so what should I do about it?

Also is one substrate (aspen/newspaper) superior to the other? And what can be done about preventing hiding under the paper?

Thanks

Most ink from newspapers is made from soy, so it will not harm your snake. But you need to confirm this with your local carrier. As for the smudge, I don't get them and believe me, they would show up with albinos.

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>>Also is one substrate (aspen/newspaper) superior to the other? And what can be done about preventing hiding under the paper?
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Superior is a matter of opinion. I have tried many things in the past but always return to newspaper/newsprint. It works the best for me. You have hides and they hide under the paper anyway? Maybe you could try to move the hides around to a different spot.
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Jay A. Martin
Jay Martin Reptiles