Proper Snake Care
The snake is one of the more exotic members of the average American household. With over 2,700 species worldwide, ranging in length from 4 inches to 33 feet, it is no wonder that caring for them, depending upon the specific type is no small matter.
It is generally a good idea to consult with a veterinarian before deciding to own exotic animals. This way you can be certain that you will receive expert advice regarding their care and upkeep. There are some general principles and rules of thumb that you might keep in mind when thinking about the proper care for your pet snake. Here are just a few of them:
1. Housing
Making sure that your pet has the appropriate housing is important for preventing an unnecessary stress to be placed on the animal. While most people buy a fish tank, there are specially made tanks that can be used to contain snakes. Some snakes are able to climb glass and are strong enough to put through the top cover if it is not fastened shut. In terms of size, the tank needs to be at least as long as the snake and three-quarters that width. These dimensions do not suffice, however for all snakes. Snakes that are particularly more active than their counter parts require a holding cell that is at least twice those dimensions, if not more.
2. Furnishings
The best furnishings for your pet must include elements that mimic natural environments. Newspapers can be used as substrates, unless your snake needs to burrow into the sand. A hideout box, a water bowl, and a place to dry are necessary for proper care.
3. Food
The variety of food in the general snake diet ranges from mice to goats. However, for your particular animal, the size of each meal is dependent upon the size of the snake. If the meal size is larger than the size of its mouth, the weight of the meal will put stress onto the stomach. If this stress becomes too great, the snake may regurgitate the contents, potentially causing it to get sick.
It is possible to purchase pre-killed prey for your animal at pet stores. Also, the animal specialists at the store may be able to help you choose the right foods.
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Author: Joseph Devine
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