Are you considering getting a baby snake? There are some advantages to raising your pet from the start. For one thing, you get to enjoy that cute toddler phase. People often find it easier to bond with animals that they have raised themselves. Plus, snakes that were born in captivity are more docile than wild ones. They also tend to be healthier, as they haven’t been exposed to the hazards, diseases, and parasites that wild snakes face. However, baby snakes are quite fragile, and they do need extra TLC. You’ll need to do lots of research to learn how to help your tiny buddy thrive. A vet offers some information and advice on this below.
Temperature
As with any reptile, keeping your tiny pal warm is going to be very important. While the exact temperature parameters vary a bit from snake to snake, most tropical snakes need habitats that stay between 75 and 90°F. Snakes that can survive in cooler climates need a range of 75 to 85°F. Keep the heat source outside the cage, so your little scaled pal doesn’t get burned. We don’t recommend using heating rocks, as they could scald your pet. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Tank
Make sure you have everything ready before you bring your snake home! When your snake is fully grown, he may need a fairly large habitat. Be sure to research your new pet’s estimated adult size, so you aren’t biting off more than you can chew, as far as your pet’s required care and space needs. For now, you can keep him in something smaller. Your pet’s first tank shouldn’t be too big. Otherwise, it could be hard for him to find his dinner. Glass aquariums with screen tops are fine. You can also get tanks made of plastic or fiberglass. Just make sure it offers proper ventilation. For substrate, you can use gravel and sand, newspaper, or aspen or pine shavings. If you use sand, monitor your tiny reptile carefully, and make sure he doesn’t get any stucj in his mouth. If he does, switch to another substrate. Your little buddy will also need fresh water and at least one hide. Don’t forget to add some decorations, such as branches, bark, logs, or basking rocks!
Eating
Getting your new reptilian buddy to eat may be your biggest challenge. This isn’t unusual. Don’t try to force feed your snake, unless your vet specifically advises it. This should be a last resort. There are a few other things you can try, but be warned: these options are not for the squeamish. Ask your vet for more information.
Please reach out to us with any questions or concerns about raising a baby snake. We are always here to help!
!Social Media Icons