Care Guide for Pet Rat Snakes

Because it is relatively easy to handle them, rat snakes make good pets. It is important to provide proper care for these animals so that they stay healthy as they grow into full size adults. According to Petco, proper care can allow them to live in excess of 15 years.
Feeding is one of the most important parts of caring for a rat snake. In general adult snakes should be fed once every one or two weeks or more often depending on the snake. Younger snakes may need food once a week or twice a week. According to Boatips, the snake will typically need one mouse per feeding.
Rat snakes eat mice. You can purchase frozen mice at many pet stores that cater to reptile owners. It is not generally suggested to use live prey. First, the freezing of the prey kills parasites and other organisms that may otherwise harm the snake. Also, prey can injure the rat snake. Live prey is more expensive and less convenient for most owners as well.
The enclosure should be large enough so that the rat snake can move around and get exercise. You will have many different options for substrate, including aspen shavings, paper towels that are not bleached, soil and pelleted paper. There should be a hiding area for the snake and something on which to climb such as a branch. The humidity should be kept at 40% to 60%.
It is important for part of the tank to be heated. The range should be 70 degrees to 85 degrees. Radiant heat or an under tank heat can be utilized.
A photoperiod light cycle is recommended for rat snakes. This should include 8 to 12 hours of light every day. Water should always be available and should not contain chlorine. The bowl should allow the snake to soak. The water should be changed every day. Any skin that has been shed and feces should also be cleaned. Once a week the tank should be thoroughly cleaned.
It is important to always watch your snake for signs of infection or other problems. If the snake has problems such as blisters, respiratory disease, vomiting, lethargy, wrinkled skin, discharge, or a loss of appetite, then get him or her evaluated.
Rat snakes can make good pets if you care for them properly. Be sure to pay close attention to your rat snake to make sure that it is growing and developing as it should.