Reptile & Amphibian Forums

hi i know that ceder kills reptiles if you keep them in it. i have rats and other food sources in cedar bedding now, what can i do to wash it off of them or will it be ok? thanks

Hi!
I'd say that it depends on how long the rodents have been kept on cedar that would be the determining factor as to what I did with the rodents.

Cedar isn't a sudden death to snakes, but more of a long term internal buildup of toxicity. That would be my concern with the rodents. I'd be concerned about how long they've been exposed to it.

Washing, bathing the rodents isn't going to be the solution. A switch to a non-toxic substrate for a certain period of time before any of them are fed might be something to consider.

I'd have to way all options. (1)How long were they kept on cedar? (2)How many rodents we're talking about. (3)Is it worth the risk of it damaging my snake(s) health?

Waaayyy back in the '70s I kept my snakes & rats on cedar shavings without ever hearing anything about it's dangers. Heck, I don't know if anyone even knew the dangers of it back then. I did that for about 2yrs without noticing any effects and then I sold my entire collection. Please don't take that as an "Don't worry 'bout it" statement, because it's not. I wouldn't do it now.

Is the cost of replacing the rodents more than how much you value your snake?

Best wishes in making your decision.

Have a good one!
HH
-----
Due to political correctness run amuck,
this ol' hillbilly is now referred to as an:
Appalachian American