Tarantula Pet Guide: Care, Types, And Everything You Need

Oct 23, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 58 views

So, you're thinking about getting a tarantula as a pet? That's awesome! Tarantulas can make fascinating and relatively low-maintenance companions. But before you rush out and get one, there's a lot to learn. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about tarantula care, different species, setting up their habitat, feeding, handling, and more. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience with invertebrates, this guide will help you become a responsible and knowledgeable tarantula owner.

Why Choose a Tarantula as a Pet?

Tarantulas, guys, are definitely not your typical furry friends, but they have a unique appeal for many people. Let's explore some of the reasons why you might consider welcoming one of these eight-legged wonders into your home:

Low Maintenance: If you're looking for a pet that doesn't require constant attention, tarantulas might be a good fit. They don't need to be walked, played with, or taken to the vet for regular checkups. Their feeding schedule is also relatively infrequent, usually once or twice a week, depending on the size and age of the tarantula. This makes them ideal for people with busy lifestyles.
Quiet Companions: Unlike dogs or cats, tarantulas are silent creatures. You won't have to worry about barking, meowing, or any other disruptive noises. This can be a major plus if you live in an apartment or prefer a peaceful home environment.
Fascinating to Observe: Tarantulas are captivating to watch. Their movements, feeding behaviors, and molting process are all incredibly interesting. They can provide hours of entertainment and a unique learning experience for both kids and adults.
Relatively Small Space Requirements: Compared to many other pets, tarantulas don't need a lot of space. A 10-20 gallon enclosure is usually sufficient for most species. This makes them suitable for people who live in smaller homes or apartments.
Long Lifespan: Many tarantula species can live for several years, with some females living for over 20 years! This means you'll have a long-term companion if you choose a tarantula. However, it's also a serious commitment that you should consider carefully.
Hypoallergenic (Generally): While not completely hypoallergenic, tarantulas don't produce dander or fur, which are common allergens for many people. If you have allergies to cats or dogs, a tarantula might be a better option for you. However, some people may still be sensitive to the urticating hairs that some tarantulas can kick off.

Before getting a tarantula, do your research and make sure you can provide the proper care and environment for it. While they are low-maintenance, they still have specific needs that must be met.

Choosing the Right Tarantula Species

Choosing the right tarantula species is crucial for a successful and enjoyable experience. Not all tarantulas are created equal – they vary in size, temperament, care requirements, and lifespan. As your guide, here's a breakdown of some popular species, categorized by their suitability for beginners:

Beginner-Friendly Tarantulas

These species are generally docile, hardy, and forgiving of minor care mistakes, making them ideal for first-time tarantula owners:

Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma hamorii): The classic beginner tarantula. They are known for their striking orange and black leg markings. They are generally docile, slow-growing, and long-lived. Red knees are terrestrial tarantulas, meaning they spend most of their time on the ground. They require a dry substrate with a water dish and a hide. Be aware that they can be slow-growing, so patience is key.
Rose Hair (Grammostola rosea): Another popular choice for beginners. Rose hairs are known for their calm temperament and relatively low maintenance. They are native to Chile and are well-adapted to dry environments. Rose hairs are also terrestrial and require a similar setup to red knees. However, they can sometimes go on hunger strikes, so don't be alarmed if your rose hair refuses to eat for a while.
Pink Toe (Avicularia avicularia): This is an arboreal species, meaning they prefer to live in trees and plants. They are known for their pink toes and beautiful iridescent colors. Pink toes are generally docile but can be skittish. They require a tall enclosure with plenty of branches and foliage to climb on. Maintaining humidity is also important for pink toes.

Intermediate Tarantulas

These species require more specific care or have a more defensive temperament. They are better suited for keepers with some experience:

Goliath Birdeater (Theraphosa blondi): The largest tarantula in the world by weight! This is a truly impressive species, but it's not for the faint of heart. Goliath birdeaters are not particularly aggressive, but they are very large and can be intimidating. They also require a large enclosure and high humidity. Due to their size and needs, they are best left to experienced keepers.
Brazilian Black (Grammostola pulchra): This is a beautiful and sought-after species. Brazilian blacks are known for their velvety black appearance and docile temperament. However, they can be slow-growing and require a specific humidity level. They are also relatively expensive, which is something to consider.
King Baboon (Citharischius crawshayi): This is a large and impressive species from Africa. King baboons are known for their thick legs and powerful build. They are also known for being defensive and having a painful bite. They are best left to experienced keepers who can handle their temperament.

Things to Consider When Choosing a Species

Temperament: Are you looking for a docile tarantula that you can potentially handle, or are you comfortable with a more defensive species that you'll primarily observe?
Size: How big do you want your tarantula to get? Some species can reach impressive sizes, while others remain relatively small.
Care Requirements: Can you provide the specific temperature, humidity, and enclosure setup that the species needs?
Lifespan: Are you prepared for a long-term commitment? Some tarantulas can live for over 20 years.
Availability and Cost: Some species are more readily available and affordable than others.

Setting Up Your Tarantula's Habitat

Creating the perfect habitat for your tarantula is key to its health and well-being. Here’s how to set up a suitable enclosure:

Enclosure Size and Type

The size of the enclosure depends on the species and size of your tarantula. A good rule of thumb is to choose an enclosure that is at least three times the tarantula's leg span in length and twice the leg span in width. For terrestrial species, a wide, shallow enclosure is best, while arboreal species need a taller enclosure.

The enclosure can be made of glass or plastic. Glass enclosures are more durable and easier to clean, but plastic enclosures are lighter and less expensive. Make sure the enclosure has a secure lid to prevent escapes.

Substrate

The substrate is the material that lines the bottom of the enclosure. It helps to maintain humidity and provides a place for the tarantula to burrow (if it's a burrowing species). Some good substrate options include:

Coco Fiber: A popular choice for its moisture-retention properties.
Peat Moss: Another good option for maintaining humidity.
Vermiculite: Helps to retain moisture and prevent mold growth.
A Mixture of Substrates: Combining coco fiber, peat moss, and vermiculite can create a well-balanced substrate.

Avoid using substrates that contain cedar or pine shavings, as these can be toxic to tarantulas.

Hides

Tarantulas need a place to hide and feel secure. You can provide a hide by using:

Cork Bark: A natural and attractive option that also provides climbing opportunities for arboreal species.
Half Logs: Simple and effective hides that can be purchased at most pet stores.
Rocks: Be careful when using rocks, as they can fall and injure your tarantula. Make sure to secure them properly.
Commercial Hides: Many different types of commercial hides are available at pet stores.

Water Dish

Tarantulas need access to fresh water at all times. Provide a shallow water dish that is large enough for the tarantula to drink from but not so deep that it could drown. You can use a shallow dish, bottle cap, or even a small ashtray as a water dish. Make sure to clean the water dish regularly to prevent bacteria growth.

Temperature and Humidity

Tarantulas are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. The ideal temperature range for most tarantulas is 75-85°F (24-29°C). You can maintain this temperature by using a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter. Avoid using heat rocks, as they can overheat and burn your tarantula.

Humidity is also important for tarantulas. The ideal humidity level depends on the species, but most tarantulas require a humidity level of 60-80%. You can maintain humidity by misting the enclosure regularly or by using a humidifier.

Decor

You can add decor to the enclosure to make it more visually appealing and to provide enrichment for your tarantula. Some good decor options include:

Fake Plants: Add a touch of greenery to the enclosure without the hassle of live plants.
Branches: Provide climbing opportunities for arboreal species.
Rocks: Add a natural look to the enclosure (make sure they are secure!).
Driftwood: Another natural and attractive option.

Feeding Your Tarantula

Feeding your tarantula the right food in the right way is crucial for their health and well-being. Here's a guide to what, when, and how to feed your eight-legged friend:

What to Feed

Tarantulas are carnivores and primarily eat insects. The most common food items include:

Crickets: A readily available and affordable option. Gut-load crickets with nutritious food before feeding them to your tarantula.
Mealworms: Another popular choice, but they are higher in fat than crickets. Offer them in moderation.
Roaches: Dubia roaches are a nutritious and easy-to-breed option. Many keepers prefer them over crickets.
Superworms: Larger than mealworms and offer a good source of protein.
Other Insects: Depending on the size of your tarantula, you can also offer grasshoppers, moths, and other insects.

Avoid feeding your tarantula wild-caught insects, as they may carry parasites or pesticides.

How Often to Feed

The frequency of feeding depends on the size and age of your tarantula:

Spiderlings (Baby Tarantulas): Feed them 2-3 times a week with appropriately sized prey.
Juveniles: Feed them 1-2 times a week.
Adults: Feed them once a week or every other week. Some adults can go for several weeks without eating, especially if they are in premolt.

How to Feed

Live Feeding: The most common method is to simply drop a live insect into the enclosure. The tarantula will hunt and capture the prey.
Pre-Killed Feeding: If you're concerned about live insects harming your tarantula (especially during molting), you can pre-kill the prey before offering it.
Tongs: Use tongs to offer the prey to your tarantula. This can help prevent accidental bites.

Remove any uneaten prey from the enclosure after 24 hours to prevent it from stressing or harming your tarantula.

Molting

Molting is a natural process where tarantulas shed their exoskeleton to grow. During molting, your tarantula may become lethargic, refuse to eat, and hide more often. It's crucial to leave your tarantula alone during this time and ensure the humidity is high enough to help them molt successfully. Never disturb a tarantula while it is molting.

Handling Your Tarantula

Handling a tarantula is a delicate topic. While some tarantulas are docile and can be handled safely, others are defensive and may bite or kick urticating hairs. Before handling any tarantula, it's important to understand the risks involved and take the necessary precautions:

Know Your Tarantula: Get to know your tarantula's temperament. Some tarantulas are naturally more docile than others.
Avoid Handling Defensive Species: If you have a defensive species, it's best to avoid handling it altogether.
Handle with Care: If you choose to handle your tarantula, do so gently and carefully. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
Keep Handling Sessions Short: Limit handling sessions to a few minutes to avoid stressing your tarantula.
Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands before and after handling a tarantula.

If your tarantula kicks urticating hairs, avoid touching your eyes or face. Wash the affected area with soap and water.

Health and Common Problems

Even with the best care, tarantulas can sometimes experience health problems. Here are some common issues to be aware of:

Dehydration: Ensure your tarantula always has access to fresh water.
Injuries: Be careful when handling your tarantula to avoid injuries.
Parasites: Wild-caught tarantulas may carry parasites. Quarantine new tarantulas before introducing them to your collection.
Mold: Maintain proper ventilation in the enclosure to prevent mold growth.

If you suspect your tarantula is sick or injured, consult with a veterinarian who specializes in invertebrates.

Conclusion

Owning a tarantula can be a rewarding and fascinating experience. By providing the proper care and environment, you can enjoy these amazing creatures for many years to come. Remember to do your research, choose the right species for your experience level, and always prioritize the well-being of your eight-legged friend. With patience and dedication, you can become a responsible and knowledgeable tarantula owner. Happy keeping!