Peat moss ok for flooring?

[GrimmDaddy]

I use Sphagnum Peat Moss for flooring, pet store recommended it (They're probably biased though, due to the fact they make money if I buy what they're selling), is it ok, are there better alternatives? list benefits and drawbacks please

 

[carol5208]

Benefits-it looks nice. Drawbacks, places for feeders to hide, it will get wet and breed bacteria, your chameleon can injest it intentionally or accidentally while shooting for prey and choke or die. Leave the cage floor bare, it is easy to clean and the most sanitary way to go.

 

[a2zcreatures]

Benefits-it looks nice. Drawbacks, places for feeders to hide, it will get wet and breed bacteria, your chameleon can injest it intentionally or accidentally while shooting for prey and choke or die. Leave the cage floor bare, it is easy to clean and the most sanitary way to go.

Agreed. Can get moldy and stink too.. especially with females i keep the bottom bare so they dont lay their eggs where they are not supposed too!

 

[suzi]

You really don't need any substrate, it is easier to keep clean and drain without any. A lot of people on here have holes drilled in the bottom for drainage, and substrate can cause impaction if ingested and harbor bacteria more easily.
Edit: a2 beat me to the punch! and Carol lol

 

[GrimmDaddy]

Ah, ok, thank you, I'll be cleaning out cage tomorrow (Step-brother is visiting today and would pester me while I would be doing it)

 

[chelsie]

i dont have a drain system yet and idk what to put on the bottom can yall suggest any thing?

 

[a2zcreatures]

i dont have a drain system yet and idk what to put on the bottom can yall suggest any thing?

nothing. its better bare.. as for a draining system it depends on the type of cage and where its located.. how are you watering?

 

[chelsie]

i have a fogg machine and i hand mist twice a day for 2mins

 

[a2zcreatures]

what kind of bottom on the cage? that plastic bottom? whats it sitting on?

 

[chelsie]

the bottom is glass im planing on drilling a hole in the bottom and her home is sitting on a computer table so theres a whole in the desk where the wires are suppose to go and thats where the tube is going to go when i get her drain system set up

 

[a2zcreatures]

be careful when drilling on glass.. you need a special drill bit.. do you have him housed in an all glass structure?

 

[chelsie]

yess an no its an 18"x18"x30" the top is mesh the sides and bottom are glass and under the doors are vents so the air can circulate

 

[a2zcreatures]

hmm.. just be carefull with the mold and moisture!

 

[chelsie]

i am i keep it verry clean! soo she stays healthy and happy

 

[sandrachameleon]

i have a fogg machine and i hand mist twice a day for 2mins

fog or mist? Fog can be problematic
hand misting for 2 minutes will probably be inadequate. Try 5 minutes each time. Or use a dripper in addition to your modest spraying