Is It Wise to Keep Small Spiders as Pets?

Are you considering getting a spider as a pet? Well, before you make any decisions, you should read this blog post! In it, we will discuss the pros and cons of keeping small spiders as pets. We will also provide some tips on how to care for them. So, if you’re curious about keeping spiders as pets, keep reading!

What Small Spiders are Capable of Being Pets?

Big hairy tarantula

There are a couple of different spiders that could potentially be kept as pets. While it is common to have a huge tarantula as a pet, some exotic pet enthusiasts prefer having small spiders instead of large ones.

Among the most famous small pet spiders that can be kept as pets are the Rose-Haired Tarantula, Pink-Toed Tarantula, and Curly-Haired Tarantula.

Of course, there are other types of small spiders that could potentially be kept as pets, but these three prove to be the most popular choices.

  • Rose-Haired Tarantula: This spider is native to the rainforest regions of Central America. It has a pale pink body with long, brown hair on its legs. The Rose-Haired Tarantula can grow up to four inches in size and prefers to live in humid environments.
  • Pink-Toed Tarantula: This spider is also native to Central America, but it can be found in a wider range of habitats than the Rose-Haired Tarantula. It has a pink body with black legs, and it typically grows to be about two inches in size.
  • Curly-Haired Tarantula: This spider is native to South America, and it gets its name from the curly hairs that grow all over its body. It is a dark brown color, and it typically grows to be about two inches in size.

The Pros of Keeping Small Spiders as Pets

There are a lot of reasons why someone might choose to keep a small spider as a pet instead of a larger one. Here are some benefits of keeping small spiders:

  • They are typically less aggressive than larger spiders.
  • They require a smaller tank or enclosure.
  • They are easier to handle and care for than larger spiders.
  • They can be fed with a wide variety of foods, including insects, small lizards, and mice.

The Cons of Keeping Small Spiders as Pets

Of course, there are also drawbacks to keeping small spiders as pets. Here are some of the cons:

  • They can be a lot more difficult to find than larger spiders, making them prone to getting lost.
  • They require more frequent handling and care than larger spiders.
  • They might not live as long as larger spiders.
  • They can be more expensive to care for than larger spiders.

Tips for Caring for Small Spiders

Black tarantula spiderIf you’ve decided that you would like to keep a small spider as a pet, there are some things you need to know in order to care for it properly. Here are some tips:

Create a comfortable, safe, and secure enclosure for your spider. This means providing an enclosure that has the proper humidity, temperature, and ventilation.

Feed your spider a diet that is rich in protein and fat. This can include live insects, small lizards, and mice.

Handle your spider with care. Make sure to always thoroughly wash your hands before and after handling them, and avoid touching their legs or abdomen.

Provide your spider with plenty of hiding places. This will help it feel safe and secure.

So, is keeping a small spider as a pet right for you? Only you can make that decision! Hopefully, this article has provided you with some things to think about.

How to Build an Ideal Spider Enclosure? 

If you decide to take care of small spiders, having a spider enclosure is important! Here are some tips:

  • The size of the enclosure should depend on how many spiders you want to keep. A good rule of thumb is to have at least five gallons of space for each spider.
  • The enclosure must have a tight-fitting lid to prevent escapees.
  • It’s important to provide ventilation without draftiness. This can be made by drilling small holes in the lid or sides of the enclosure.
  • The enclosure should have a substrate that will hold moisture, such as peat moss or coconut fiber.
  • There should also be hiding places, such as hollow logs or rocks.
  • Finally, it’s important to maintain the proper humidity level, which should be around 70%.

By following these tips, you can create an ideal environment for your small spiders!

What to Do If Your Spider Becomes Sick or Injured?

In case your spider becomes sick or injured, treating them is not the same as treating other pets. You will need to take it to a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals. If you can’t find a vet who specifically treats spiders, then your best bet is to take it to a zoo or wildlife sanctuary. They will have the experience and knowledge necessary to help your spider get better.

Furthermore, if you are having trouble caring for your spider, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are many people who are happy to offer advice and assistance when it comes to keeping spiders as pets. So don’t hesitate to reach out if you need some guidance.

Where to Find Small Spiders for Sale?

If you’re looking to buy a small spider, your best bet is to check online. There are many websites that sell spiders as pets, and they typically have a wide variety of species to choose from. You can also try contacting local exotic pet stores or zoos in your area. They may be able to help you find the right spider for your needs.

Final Thoughts

Spiders can make interesting and unique pets. However, it’s important to do your research before you decide to keep one. Make sure you know what kind of care they need and what to do if something goes wrong. Once you’ve done that, you can decide if a small spider is a right pet for you.