Choosing a Snake as a Pet

If you are considering having a snake as a pet, it's important to choose the right type of snake for your home environment. A suitable and controlled environment is necessary for their well-being: a terrarium adapted to their size and species, suitable humidity and temperature, and stable light.

There are over 3,000 different snake species in the world and their character depends largely on the species. The origin of the snake also influences its character. Snakes bred in captivity are more used to human presence and handling, while adult snakes captured from their habitat may be less friendly.

Snakes can be great pets if we understand and commit to meet their needs. However, they do not show attachment to their owners, which creates a difference, as the owner can develop great affection for a pet snake, which can live up to 30 years.

Advantages of Having a Snake as a Pet

• They do not need to be fed daily.
• They do not cause any allergies, as they lack fur and feathers.
• They require a small space to live as long as it is adapted to their size, where they can feel comfortable.
• They do not give off body odor.
• They are clean.
• They are docile.
• They do not cause any noise, as they love silence and tranquility.
• They do not need daily walks.

Snakes are low maintenance and can be an exceptional pet for those with busy schedules.

Disadvantages of Having a Snake as a Pet

• You need to learn about your snake to provide the care it requires.
• You need to feed your snake and they often only eat living prey.
• You need to keep the terrarium secured because snakes are escape artists.
• You have to invest some money to set the right environment for your snake.
• Snakes can live long, requiring your long-term commitment.
• Snakes can get big, so ensure you can manage it and get the right size terrarium.
• Snakes are not cuddly pets and may not be the best option for children.
• Snakes can bite you. By treating them properly and with care, the risk is minimized.

Snake Care

If you are willing to welcome a snake into your home, you should be able to provide the following basic care:

• The snake's accommodation must be a spacious terrarium with good ventilation and enough closures to prevent escape.
• The substrate of the terrarium must be changed periodically for optimal hygienic conditions.
• They need certain temperature and humidity levels.
• The snake only needs to eat once a week or every fifteen days, depending on the specific species.
• Vitamin supplements are necessary in our snake's diet.
• They should always have a container with clean and fresh water.
• Snakes need an annual veterinary check-up, as they are susceptible to various diseases.

What Snake Should You Get?

One of the most common snakes to use as pets are boa constrictors. However, for beginner snake owners, it is better to avoid large constricting snakes, venomous snakes, and snakes with more difficult care requirements. The best choices for beginners are:

• Corn snakes.
• King and milk snakes.
• Ball pythons.
• Hognose snakes.

Conclusion

Snakes can be great pets with multiple advantages, but we need to understand the long-term commitment we are making. For more information, talk to a Pet Expert and get customized advice by submitting a request in our Mavyn website.