Iguanas - Proper substrate for spiny-tails

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Spiny-ig Debra Bostiwck Leokeeper Jif Spiny-ig Leokeeper Spiny-ig Leokeeper Leokeeper

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#172239

Spiny-ig
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Proper substrate for spiny-tails

I noticed in a posting not long ago that paper towel or newspaper was best for most igs, but that another substrate was used for spiny-tails. I’d like to know what the recommended substrate for spiny-tails is, as I know they are terrestrial and like to dig. Ours is currently on paper & doing well, but we would like to make her more at home in her environment. She is what I would call a sub-adult, as she is young and still growing, but has laid her first eggs. Any help would be appreciated from other Ctenosaura owners.
Thanks!

10/29/04 10:48pm

#172366

Debra Bostiwck
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Message To: Spiny-ig In reference to Message Id: 172239

Proper substrate for spiny-tails

I use shredded news paper for my spinys. They really seem to like it. They can dig in it and hide under it. It is great.

10/30/04 11:20am

#172518

Leokeeper
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Message To: Debra In reference to Message Id: 172366

Proper substrate for spiny-tails

I use paper towels for my green iguanas, its cheap and easy to clean.

10/30/04 8:03pm

#172561

Jif
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Message To: Spiny-ig In reference to Message Id: 172239

Proper substrate for spiny-tails

For adult or almost adult Spinys you could use some Cypress mulch (which I understand is difficult to find in CA), the ground coconut husk substrate, or just plain sifted dirt. The lizards would probably appreciate the dirt best. My clubtails are on sand.

10/30/04 9:24pm

#172565

Spiny-ig
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Message To: Jif In reference to Message Id: 172561

Proper substrate for spiny-tails

Thanks!
I’ll see if I can find cypress mulch, and if I can’t maybe I can order it online(?). I’d rather stay away from dirt because I have a feeling Dwayne would throw it everywhere, though I’m sure she’d enjoy doing it. If we do go with mulch, how do I ensure that it won’t have any bugs or mites (same with soil)? I’ve been told that microwaving it is a good way to kill anything that might be in there. Is this true, as we don’t currently have a microwave and I don’t want to go buy one based on a myth.

Thanks again!

10/30/04 9:38pm