Corn Snake Care: The Best Bedding Options

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Pantherophis guttatus, more commonly known as a corn snake, are attractive, gentle, and friendly. Upon immediate inspection, they resemble venomous copperheads but despite the resemblance, corn snakes lack functional venom and are therefore harmless. It is these attributes along with their ability to acclimatize well in captivity, that have seen them slither to top as one of the most popular snakes to be kept as pets. However, irrespective of how adjustable and tough the corn snake is, they still require specialized care. 

Owners need to feed their pets timely and with the correct diet. The temperature gradient and humidity level need to be correctly adjusted to make for a conducive living space as well. Snakes also require the correct bedding or substrate, which is the material that gets placed at the base of a snake’s enclosure, providing snakes with a comfortable place to lay and burrow themselves in. It helps with regulating the humidity in the cage and promotes the wellbeing of any snake. Finding the best bedding for corn snakes is also of paramount importance as this will ensure that your pet is safe and comfortable.

Best Bedding for Corn Snakes

 Aspen bedding from Zoo Med

This has proven to be a firm favorite for both owners and their corn snakes. Snake enthusiasts are drawn to the substrate for its reasonable price point, light appearance that brightens up their pet’s habitat as well as its odors absorbing properties. Due to its soft nature, corn snakes find the bedding comfortable as it does not irritate their scales, it also allows for the easy and safe burrowing of your pet. The Aspen bedding is also one of the easiest to maintain, saving owners on cleaning time.

Reptile Prime Coconut Fiber Bedding

Noted for its ability to regulate humidity levels, this coco coir-derived bedding serves as an excellent host for your pet. It comes in handy when your snake is shedding, as humidity ensures that the process happens without any complications. In addition to its odor-absorbing qualities, the substrate does not allow for the growth of mold. The coco coir is also excellent for housing corn eggs during incubation.

Galapagos Aspen Digs Shavings Bedding

Much like the other beddings mentioned, this substrate is dust-free and easy to clean. It also helps to create the ideal humidity level and does not irritate the scales of the snake. The shavings are extremely absorbent which is great for odor control and it does not contain any toxic resins and oils.

Zoo Med Forest Floor Bedding

Made of cypress mulch, which is extremely popular for snake bedding, this substrate is 100% organic and natural. The longevity of the bedding is worth noting as once it gets moistened, it remains damp for weeks, whilst maintaining an odorless scent. To maintain the ideal humidity of 40-60%, snake owners will have to ensure that the bedding is not too wet.

ReptiChip Premium Coconut Reptile Substrate

This eco-friendly, coco chip bedding is dustless and allows your pet to burrow without any irritation. It also retains humidity well which is ideal for a shedding snake. The non-abrasive substrate does not harm or make your snake feel uncomfortable. The bedding does not mold or promote the growth of fungi or bacteria. The price tag is higher compared to the other options but it matches the quality.

Final Thoughts 

Not all bedding is equal in quality and finding the best fit will depend on your snakes’ individual needs as well as your budget. The ability of the substrate to maintain ideal humidity conditions as well as odor control and dustiness are some of the major factors to look at when comparing products. Snake owners should also be discouraged from trying DIY methods such as paper towels or newspaper shreddings.

The incorrect bedding can have potential health risks for your pet, should it contain harmful chemicals or oils. Stay away from bedding that produces dust, dries out quickly, and would be poisonous if ingested by your snake. The incorrect bedding can cause severe stress to the snake. Any of the above choices would be a good fit for your corn snake, with the ideal candidate being chosen according to what your requirements are.