Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've read that aspen shavings are ok to use for Black Milksnakes. Does anyone know if pine or cedar shavings are ok? Most people say that pine shavings are toxic -- just wanted to double check with others.

Never use cedar! Cedar is toxic to snakes. Pine I'm not to sure about because I have seen people use it with no problems but then I've also read that it's toxic as well. Just to be on the safe side I strictly use Aspen.

http://www.kingsnake.com/rockymountain/RMHPages/RMHkingsand.htm

They talk about subtrate on the link above. Hope this helps.

I use Sani-Chips with my Black Milks and have had no problems. I also agree, stay away from the ceder.
Jason

thats not true. i have heard that argument for years, i have used cedar for many years off & on with not a hint of trouble

Well what does that prove? Why take the chance when you buy a $100,$200, or $1000 dollar snake? I know I wouldn't take a chance of risking my snakes health. But thats just me, I do everything to try to provide my animals with the best care possible.

Hi!

I used pine for my milksnake and kingsnake for about a year, with no problems. But I switched to aspen anyways, because I decided the small extra expense and trouble finding it was worthwhile just to be on the safe side. I decided not to experiment with my babies.

Nicki
-----
1.1.0 Uromastyx maliensis (Mali Uromastyx) - Spike and Lizzy
0.0.1 Lampropeltis mexicana thayeri (Variable (Thayer’s) Kingsnake) - Kavi
0.0.1 Lampropeltis triangulum campbelli (Pueblan Milksnake) - Callia
0.2.0 Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis (Red-Sided Garter Snakes) - Spot and Fluffy