Caring For A Baby Snake

Are you considering getting a snake? People often like to get their pets as babies. There are some advantages to raising your pet from the start. It can be easier to bond with an animal you’ve raised yourself. Baby animals are also very cute and fun. However, baby snakes are quite fragile. Caring for them is a bit more complex than raising a kitten or puppy. You’ll need to do lots of research to learn how to help your tiny buddy thrive. A vet offers some advice on this below.

Temperature

As with any other reptile, keeping your pet warm is very important. Exact temperature requirements will vary from snake to snake. However, most tropical snakes need a temperature range that is between 75 and 90°F. Ones that can survive in cooler climates need a range of 75 to 85°F. You’ll need to take care that your little scaled pal doesn’t get burned. Keep the heat source outside the cage, and avoid using heating rocks. Your vet can give you more information.

Tank

When your snake is fully grown, he may need a fairly large habitat. For now, you can keep him in something smaller. Smaller tanks or terrariums will also make it easier for him to find his dinner. Glass aquariums with screen tops are fine. You can also get a plastic or fiberglass habitat. Just make sure that it offers proper ventilation. Your little buddy will also require a hide box and fresh water. 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 caught in his mouth. If he does, switch to another substrate. Don’t forget to add some decorations, such as branches, bark, logs, or basking rocks!

Eating

You may find that getting your new reptilian pal to eat is your biggest challenge. This isn’t unusual. Never try to force feed your snake, unless your vet specifically advises it. This should only happen as a last resort. There are a few other things you can try first. Just 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!