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Old 08-26-2019, 12:53 AM  
StephBrom
Newborn Pup
 
Join Date: May 2018
Posts: 26
Default Re: Natural Substrates UK?

Quote:
Originally Posted by AmityvilleHams View Post
I would definitely not use any kind of compost, Eco Earth, or similar substances as a main substrate, some of which I would not use at all. Eco Earth in small amounts can be fine, but it does hold a lot of moisture which isn't appropriate for hamsters as they do best with a more dry substrate and can even develop respiratory related health issues due to too much humidity.

Sand is a very similar situation, you do not want it as your main substrate. Your enclosure would become very dusty, as well as it not holding proper burrows. Hamsters, being a naturally burrowing species, should always have the ability to burrow inside their enclosures.

Unfortunately just because a popular Youtuber did something doesn't mean it's a good idea or even safe, and this happens to be one of those situations.
After doing some more research last night I’ve found it’s quite risky as you never know what the soil has been treated with, so I’ve decided against it, think I’m going to do a mixture of wood shavings and hay instead to aim for a more natural look, with a sand bath (they sell a hamster friendly one at Pets at Home) and other little natural looking decorations
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