substrate for sleeping

[MeImNot]

Hey guys,

I use topsoil/sand mix as substrate for my hermanni, do you think its a good idea to also put some shredded newspaper in the inverted pot where she sleeps and maybe spray them lightly with water.

Any sleeping substrate ideas are welcome Thanks!

[wigwamman]

a little thought is needed in this respect as shredded paper will add to the fire hazard,it has been reported in the press that a tortoise burned down the owners house when he dragged the shredded paper under the basking lamp.
how about a deeper level of substrate under the pot,then lightly spray that area to provide humidity.

[amph55]

Would nt use newspaper in an out building as mice ravished through everything with paper/ plastic bag material last year. Thankfully I did nt have my tortoise in there at the time!

[MeImNot]

I'm paranoid about changing where she sleeps frequently (had an RI re-infection), so unfortunately I cannot use soil, thats why I was thinking about shredded newspaper. Also this is for an inside table and its almost impossible for her to drag the shredded paper to where her basking spot is

[Anita Sayles]

Just read your other post about the slight noise when breathing. I would personally leave things just as they are for a while... I don't think it's a good idea to make sleeping areas damp-ish until your 100% sure your tortoise is well

[MeImNot]

Anita, you are right! I'll postpone this for a while, however I would still like to put something in her sleeping are so that she can bury into.

[MeImNot]

that might be a good idea, i could change it every couple of days...do you know if it will withstand washing?