Rat snakes are a popular choice for snake enthusiasts due to their manageable size, calm temperament, and ease of care. Here’s a comprehensive feeding care guide for rat snakes:
Rat Snake Care Guide:
Enclosure Size:
Hatchlings: 10–20-gallon tank.
Juveniles and adults: 20-40 gallon tank (or larger, depending on... Read More
Rat snakes are a popular choice for snake enthusiasts due to their manageable size, calm temperament, and ease of care. Here’s a comprehensive feeding care guide for rat snakes:
Rat Snake Care Guide:
Enclosure Size:
Hatchlings: 10–20-gallon tank.
Juveniles and adults: 20-40 gallon tank (or larger, depending on size and activity level).
Ensure a secure, escape-proof enclosure as king snakes are skilled escape artists.
Substrate: Aspen shavings, cypress mulch, or coconut husk. Paper towels or newspaper work well for simple cleaning but do not allow burrowing. Avoid cedar or pine due to harmful oils.
Hides: At least two hides: one on the warm side and one on the cool side of the enclosure. Include climbing branches and decor for enrichment.
Humidity: 40-60% is ideal. Provide a humid hide during shedding periods.
Lighting: No UVB lighting is required, but a consistent day-night cycle (12 hours light, 12 hours dark) is recommended. Use a heat mat or ceramic heat emitter to provide a temperature gradient.
Temperature:
Warm side (basking area): 85-90°F (29-32°C).
Cool side: 70-75°F (21-24°C).
Night temperature: Do not let it drop below 65°F (18°C).
Use a thermostat to regulate heating devices and thermometers to monitor temperatures in both warm and cool zones.
Diet
Food:
Hatchlings: Start with pinkie mice (newborn mice).
Juveniles: Move to fuzzy mice or small mice as they grow.
Adults: Feed adult mice, small rats, or appropriately sized prey.
Use frozen-thawed prey to avoid injuries to the snake. Thaw completely and warm the prey to room temperature before feeding.
Feeding Schedule:
Hatchlings: Feed every 5-7 days.
Juveniles: Feed every 7-10 days.
Adults: Feed every 10-14 days.
Feeding Time: Offer food in the evening or night, as rat snakes are more active during this time.
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