Snakes Care Guide

Get to Know Your Snake

Basic Information

Includes common pet species such as Ball Pythons, Corn Snakes, King Snakes, Milk Snakes, California Kings, Hognose Snakes, Boa Constrictors and more

Common Name

Snake

Scientific Name

Varies by species (e.g. Python regius, Pantherophis guttatus, Lampropeltis spp., Boa constrictor)

Size

Varies by species (1 - 10+ feet)

Life span

10 - 30+ years (varies by species)

Temperament

Generally calm and can become handleable with regular, gentle care

Checklist for Your Snake

Appropriately sized enclosure with secure lid

Heat source (under tank heat mat, radiant heat panel or ceramic heat emitter)

Thermostat (required)

Thermometer (digital)

Hygrometer

Hides (warm side and cool side)

Substrate (species appropriate)

Water dish (large enough to soak)

Climbing and enrichment items (branches, plants, décor)

Humidity control (as needed)

Food (frozen/thawed rodents, species appropriate)

Feeding tongs

Regular cleaning supplies

Everything your Snake needs, all in one place.

Shop Snake Supplies

Feeding Your Snake

Feed appropriately sized, frozen/thawed rodents (mice or rats) based on the width of the snake (prey should be about the same width as the widest part of the snake).
Feeding frequency depends on species and age (juveniles more often, adults less often).
Always feed thawed prey. Never feed live prey.
Provide a separate feeding area or remove uneaten prey after 1 - 2 hours.
Offer fresh, clean water at all times.

Snake Habitat

Housing & Environment

Size: Provide an enclosure large enough for the snake to fully stretch out, with room to explore.
Type: Front-opening glass or PVC enclosures with a secure, escape-proof lid work best.
Substrate: Use a species-appropriate substrate such as aspen, cypress mulch, coconut fiber, reptile carpet or paper.
Hides: Provide at least two hides – one on the warm side and one on the cool side. Hides should be snug, allowing the snake to feel secure.
Enrichment: Include branches, plants, tunnels and other décor for climbing and exploration.
Water Dish: Large enough for soaking (both helps with hydration and shedding).
Maintain proper temperature and humidity levels based on species (see Temperature & Humidity section).
Keep the enclosure in a quiet area away from heavy foot traffic, direct sunlight and loud noises.

Temperature & Humidity

Provide a temperature gradient in the enclosure so the snake can regulate its body temperature.
Warm side: 80 - 88°F (varies by species)
Cool side: 72 - 78°F (varies by species)
Use a thermostat with any heat source (heat mats, radiant heat panels or ceramic heat emitters) to prevent overheating.
Humidity: 40 - 60% (most species)
Higher humidity may be needed during shedding or for tropical species.
Use a hygrometer to monitor levels.
Provide a natural day/night cycle (12 hours light / 12 hours dark).

Décor & Enrichment

Handling Your Snake

Most pet snakes are calm and can become handleable with regular, gentle handling.
Allow your snake to settle in for 1 - 2 weeks before handling.
Always support the entire body when handling.
Avoid handling during shedding, after feeding, or if the snake shows signs of stress (hissing, frequent tongue flicking, or trying to escape).
Handle in a safe, quiet area close to the ground.

Common Health Problems

Health & Safety

Keep the enclosure clean and dry to prevent respiratory and skin issues.
Monitor for signs of illness, such as refusal to eat, abnormal shedding, wheezing or discharge, or mites.
Quarantine new snakes before introducing them to other reptiles.
Always wash your hands before and after handling.