Caring for a Baby Snake

Are you considering a pet snake? There are several advantages to raising your pet from the start. For one, people often find it easier to bond with animals they have raised themselves. A captive-born snake will also likely be more docile than a wild one. Plus, they tend to be healthier, as they haven’t been exposed to the hazards, diseases, and parasites that wild snakes face. However, baby snakes are also quite fragile. You’ll need to do lots of research to learn how to help your tiny new friend thrive. A Fonthill vet offers a few tips on this below.

Temperature

As with any snake, keeping your reptilian pal warm is extremely important. While exact temperature parameters may vary a little from snake to snake, most tropical snakes require a temperature range that is between 75° and 90°F. Snakes that can survive in cooler climates typically require temps between 75° to 85°F. Keep the heat source outside the cage, so your little scaled pal doesn’t get burned. We don’t recommend heating rocks, as they could potentially scald your pet.

Tank

Make sure you have everything ready before you bring your new snake home! When your snake is all grown up, he may require a fairly large habitat. For now, keep him in something smaller. Otherwise, it could be difficult for him to locate his dinner. Glass aquariums with screen tops are usually sufficient. You can also get tanks made of plastic or fiberglass. Just make sure it offers appropriate ventilation. 

For substrate, you can use newspaper, gravel and sand, or aspen or pine shavings. If you use sand, monitor your tiny reptile carefully, and make sure he doesn’t accidentally get any caught in his mouth. If he does, switch to another substrate. Your little buddy will also need a hide box and a steady supply of fresh water. Don’t forget to add some decorations, such as branches, bark, logs, and basking rocks!

Eating

You may find that getting your new reptilian buddy to eat is your biggest challenge. This is not unusual. Do not try to force-feed your snake, unless your vet specifically advises you to do so. This should only happen as a last resort. There are a few other things you can try before reaching that point. Just be warned: these options are not for the squeamish. Ask your Fonthill 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!