A Vet-Approved Guide to Tarantulas for Beginners

Thinking about getting a tarantula but not sure where to start? These fascinating creatures can make unique, low-maintenance pets, but they also come with specific care needs. As a veterinarian, I understand that choosing a tarantula and learning how to care for one might feel overwhelming at first. Don’t worry—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about keeping tarantulas as pets, ensuring both you and your eight-legged companion thrive.

🩺 Vet Recommendations

Tarantulas are unlike traditional pets such as cats or dogs, but they can be excellent companions for the right owner. Here are some vet-approved reasons why tarantulas are a great choice for beginners:

• They’re quiet and don’t require a large space.
• They have relatively simple dietary needs, mostly eating insects.
• They don’t require daily attention, making them a good choice for busy owners.
• They can live for many years (some species up to 20 years!), offering long-term companionship.

That said, tarantulas are delicate creatures. Handling them incorrectly or providing an unsuitable environment can lead to stress or injuries. Understanding their needs is key to keeping them healthy and happy.

📋 Care Tips

Here are the essentials for providing proper care for your tarantula:

Choosing the Right Tarantula

For beginners, some species are more suitable than others due to their calm temperament and ease of care. Popular beginner-friendly tarantulas include:

• Chilean Rose (Grammostola rosea)
• Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma hamorii)
• Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia)

These species are known for their docile nature and adaptability to captive environments. Avoid more aggressive or fast-moving species until you have more experience.

Setting Up Their Habitat

Tarantulas need a secure and comfortable enclosure. Here’s what to consider:

• Size: The enclosure should be 2–3 times the tarantula’s leg span in width and slightly taller for arboreal (tree-dwelling) species.
• Substrate: Use materials like coconut fiber or peat moss to line the bottom. This helps maintain humidity and allows for burrowing.
• Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C), depending on the species.
• Humidity: Ensure proper humidity levels, typically 50–80%, by misting the enclosure lightly. Use a hygrometer to monitor.
• Hiding Spots: Provide a small hideout, such as a piece of cork bark or a hollow log, for your tarantula to retreat to.

Be sure the enclosure is escape-proof, as tarantulas are skilled climbers and can slip through small gaps.

Feeding Your Tarantula

Tarantulas are insectivores, and their diet consists of live prey. Common options include:

• Crickets
• Mealworms
• Dubia roaches

Feed your tarantula once or twice a week, depending on its size and species. Avoid overfeeding, as tarantulas can become obese. Remove any uneaten prey within 24 hours to prevent stress or injury to your tarantula.

✅ Do’s and Don’ts

When caring for a tarantula, keep these tips in mind:

Do’s:

• Research the specific needs of your tarantula’s species.
• Handle your tarantula sparingly and only when necessary. They can become stressed or injured during handling.
• Maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level in their enclosure.
• Clean the enclosure regularly to prevent mold or bacteria buildup.

Don’ts:

• Don’t house multiple tarantulas together—they’re solitary and may fight.
• Don’t use sharp objects or decorations that could harm your tarantula.
• Don’t panic if your tarantula molts (sheds its exoskeleton). This is a normal and healthy process.

💡 Expert Advice

Tarantulas are fascinating creatures that require minimal daily care but significant attention to their habitat and diet. As a veterinarian, I recommend starting with a docile species and gradually expanding your knowledge and experience. Always handle them with care, and when in doubt, consult a professional for guidance.

While tarantulas are hardy pets, they’re not entirely maintenance-free. Regularly monitor their health and behavior, and don’t hesitate to seek advice if you notice anything unusual, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty molting.

FAQs

Q: Do tarantulas bite, and are their bites dangerous?
A: Tarantulas can bite if they feel threatened, but bites are rare and usually no worse than a bee sting for most species. However, some species have more potent venom, so it’s best to avoid provoking them.

Q: How often do I need to clean the tarantula’s enclosure?
A: Spot-clean the enclosure weekly by removing waste and uneaten prey. A deep clean with substrate replacement is typically needed every 4–6 months.

Q: Can I hold my tarantula?
A: While some tarantulas tolerate handling, it’s not recommended to do so frequently. Handling can stress your tarantula, and a fall from even a small height can be fatal.

Book a $49 online vet consultation at https://www.dialavet.com for fast, expert advice.

References

• PetMD
• ASPCA
• VCA Animal Hospitals
• The Spruce Pets
• Dial A Vet – Blog Library