Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I very seldom post here, Eve I like the paper thing, but I have used high grade AstroTurf (short blade, home depot) and have two exact cut pieces, and keep one in about 7-10 days, that means vacuumed and feces removed daily and then exchange with the clean one, the dirty one can be sprayed off with a hose then cleansed with soapy water and or a disinfectant and then cleaned and air dried for next application. This has worked with me except for egg laying which I have a 5 ft. cage with lots of lighting and play sand, and use the large oatmeal container with the plastic lid on it and a hole cut in it for a lying box, so far I have been 100 percent. Looks dumb in a cage, but the lizards seem to get it..
AstroTurf cannot be as clean as paper, but its way better than sand as an alternative.
Just thought I'd throw in my two cents... I agree with you about these lizards susceptibility to a host of health issues that can often be traced back to this very issue....
Last of all I beleive that UVB direct sun "kills" a lot of stuff, but cage lighting does not. Still no excuse not to clean your caging no matter what you use...I have changed my set-ups to a roll away cages that goes in the garage at night, but during the day out in natural sunlight.. I have quit using using artificial lighting with collareds...except during egg laying.....
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www.phrynosoma.org

Good post as well as everyone who has left us some tidbits of their ideas, and things that seem to work for them. Glad to hear all is well, I got your mail now have to get some sit down time and get back to you.

Best wishes for the upcoming spring /breeding season my friend!
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Eve
Suncharmers Colorful Collareds & More

Thanks Eve,
Certainly one must be wise when keeping these lizards long term. I have the rhythm of their lifestyle down relatively good, but as you know, there are glitches from time to time and re-evaluation. No rush on getting back will catch you when your not so busy! Cheers!!!!
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www.phrynosoma.org

Hey Lou,

I have been keeping as pets and breeding these guys for over 12 years now, and I will say this, THEY have taught me much, but I never get comfortable, or think I have it down.
** The new trials never stop coming, and I never stop learning.

Have to stay on your tippy toes always, other words never get to comfortable or complacent in your care with these lizards or it will backfire on ya, ;0)

Cheers right back at ya buddy!
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Eve
Suncharmers Colorful Collareds & More