Alfalfa Pellets for garters?

[twgrosmick]

Has anyone used these? My babies have been ingesting a few chunks of care fresh and I am just exploring other options. Positive and negatives? I would be using them for babies and adults.

Thanks

Tyler

[guidofatherof5]

I did find this and will put a link to the entire article.
Substrates (http://newreptilecages.com/tag/substrates/)


Alfalfa Pellets
While not technically a litter, these alfalfa-based rabbit and small mammal food pellets may be used as a substrate for some lizards. The problem with these pellets is that, like the walnut shell litter, they quickly decompose and grow bacteria and fungi when they are wetted by food, water, feces or urates. They are unsuitable for chelonians, who may develop gait irregularities and foot deformities from trying to keep their footing on the highly mobile pellets. They are rather rough for burrowing snakes and smaller lizards. They may be used with green iguanas and prehensile-tailed skinks as they will break down in the gut if eaten and so will not cause intestinal impactions so long as the lizard is drinking regularly and eating moistened food. The pellets must be cleaned out as soon as they are wetted, however, or they will decompose and create an unhealthful environment both for the lizards and the students.

[twgrosmick]

What do you use Steve?

[guidofatherof5]

Compressed aspen pellets.
I used 40 lbs bags and a 1/2 ton a year.
Falls apart when wet. Easy to spot clean. Cuts down/eliminates odors.
I recycle it into my garden.
Gentle Touch Products - Products: Cat Box Filler, Pet Bedding, & Horse Bedding (http://www.gentletouchproducts.com/products.html)

[katach]

Nice. If you don't mind me asking, what do you pay for it?

[guidofatherof5]

I'm fortunate as I pick it up from the factory but I think a retail 40 lbs bag of a little over $15

[katach]

How often do you change it?

[guidofatherof5]

Spot clean then a full cleaning every month or so.

[katach]

Hmmmm..... :)