Snake

A Snake is a good companion for:

Children under 5

Seniors

Apartments/Condos

Children ages 5–11

Busy People

Rural Homes

Life Span

The average life span of a snake is 10 to 12 years.

Typical Behavior

Snakes are not very active. They spend the majority of their time lying on the ground of their enclosure. Some types of snakes like to climb vegetation and would appreciate small branches to climb on and hide. Snakes do not like to be held particularly. If you wish to hold your snake, it will be more adaptable to this at an early age.

Care Requirements

There are over 2,700 species of snake in our world, ranging in size from four inches to 33 feet. Snakes require very special care depending on the type of snake you select. Feeding your snake the proper food and providing it with a habitat as close to what it is used to in the wild will keep your snake healthy and happy.

Proper Habitat and Habitat Maintenance Requirements

You want to be confident that the enclosure you plan to use for a snake is escape proof. Look for a cage that is easy to clean, well-ventilated and adequate in size. Glass aquariums, with a secure screen top, make the best enclosure for snakes. A good formula to size the enclosure is three-fourths square foot of floor space per foot of snake. The proper temperature and humidity of the habitat will vary among species, so do your research before deciding on a specific species of snake. It is a good idea to equip the habitat with a gauge for checking the temperature and humidity in order to maintain consistency. Snakes like to hide, and would appreciate if you provide them a box or two for retreating.

Dietary Requirements

All snakes are carnivorous (meat-eaters). Generally, a snake is fed once a week, but younger snakes should be fed more often. Many snakes eat rats and mice, but your local pet supply store or your local vet can inform you on what type of food your species of snake requires, as well as the necessary vitamin supplements that it may need. You can feed your snake live or pre-killed prey. All snakes should have a dish of clean water to drink.

Financial Considerations for a Snake:

Veterinary

Snakes require veterinarians who specialize in reptiles and may charge more based on this specialty. Because snakes have slow metabolisms, it may take a long time before symptoms appear if they become ill. If you suspect your snake is sick, immediately take it to a veterinarian that specializes in reptiles.

Grooming

All snakes require a dish of clean water for bathing. Snakes shed their skin about once every month to three months. This process happens naturally and does not require the help of a person. While shedding its skin, don't be concerned if your snake refuses food.

Animal Sitter

A professional pet sitter, a friend or neighbor, or a boarding kennel can be used to care for your snake in your absence. The hardest part is finding a sitter who isn’t afraid of your slithering friend.

Food

The cost to feed your snake will depend on what you feed. Pre-killed prey can be more expensive than live prey. Check with your local pet supply store to find out the price for your snake’s food before you adopt.

Other Supplies:

Generally a snake will require a heat source (heat rock, heating pad designed for reptile enclosures, clamp-style heat lamp), food, tank with a secure screen top, two flat ceramic bowls from which the snake can easily drink, hiding boxes, and plants.

Interesting Facts about Snakes:

• Snakes move by relaxing and contracting muscles lengthwise along the body.
• Most snakes have over 200 teeth, with two rows of teeth on the top jaw and one row on the bottom jaw.
• There is no visible difference between a male and a female snake.
• Snakes are completely deaf but they do pick up vibrations in their jawbones and on the scent molecules on their tongue.
• Snakes can swallow prey three times bigger than their mouth.