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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-avoid-cedar-pine-substrate

Which wood shavings should reptile keepers avoid?

Avoid cedar and pine shavings.

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  1. Cedar and pine shavings ✔
  2. Plain paper towels
  3. Clean newspaper

Why: Cedar and pine release aromatic oils. Merck warns these oils may cause breathing and neurologic problems in reptiles.

Huh, didn't know that: Paper substrates make droppings and regurgitated material easier to notice.

The dad joke
Why did the reptile reject cedar? The scent was barking up the wrong tree.
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References

Answer: Cedar and pine shavings. Cedar and pine release aromatic oils. Merck warns these oils may cause breathing and neurologic problems in reptiles.

  1. Providing a Home for a Reptile www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/reptiles/providing-a-home-for-a-reptile
    Cedar and pine shavings should not be used, because they contain odor-emitting oils that may cause both breathing and neurologic problems in reptiles.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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