Using a heat mat correctly
Where heat mats work, where they do not
Heat mats: uses and limits
Heat mats are mainly suited to thin plastic rearing tubs, where the heat transfers directly through the base.
Never place a heat mat underneath a glass vivarium – it risks heat build-up and thermal stress cracks. Fitting one to the outside wall of a wooden or PVC vivarium does not work either, as no heat reaches the inside.
In smaller vivariums, heat mats can occasionally be fitted inside on the ceiling – always with a thermostat and positioned so that the animal cannot come into direct contact with it.
For safe, welfare-appropriate heating we generally recommend heat sources from above – a heat panel or a heat lamp – as these mirror natural sunlight.