Tarantulas as Pets: A Complete Care Guide for Beginners
Tarantulas are among the most fascinating and misunderstood exotic pets. With their furry legs, calm nature, and mysterious behavior, they’ve captured the interest of many pet lovers around the world. Contrary to popular belief, tarantulas are not aggressive monsters—they are generally shy, low-maintenance creatures that can make excellent pets if cared for properly.
If you’re considering keeping a tarantula, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right species to setting up their enclosure, feeding, and handling.
🕷️ Why Choose a Tarantula as a Pet?
Many people are surprised to learn that tarantulas can be rewarding pets. Here are a few reasons:
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Low Maintenance – They require far less attention compared to dogs, cats, or even reptiles.
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Unique Behavior – Watching them hunt, molt, or build silk-lined burrows is fascinating.
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Quiet & Odorless – Unlike other pets, tarantulas don’t make noise or smell.
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Long Lifespan – Females can live 15–25 years, while males usually live 5–10 years.
📌 Choosing the Right Tarantula Species
Not all tarantulas are suitable for beginners. Some are more docile and easier to care for, while others can be defensive and quick. Here are some good starter species:
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Chilean Rose Hair (Grammostola rosea) – Hardy and calm.
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Mexican Red-Knee (Brachypelma smithi) – Striking colors and gentle temperament.
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Curly Hair Tarantula (Tliltocatl albopilosus) – Easy to care for and docile.
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Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia) – Arboreal and unique, but need more humidity.
Avoid aggressive or fast-moving species (like the Orange Baboon Tarantula) if you’re a beginner.
🏡 Setting Up the Perfect Enclosure
Tarantulas don’t need fancy setups, but their enclosure must mimic their natural habitat.
Enclosure Size
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Ground-dwelling species: 5–10 gallon terrarium is usually enough.
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Arboreal species: A taller enclosure with climbing space is required.
Substrate
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Use coconut fiber, peat moss, or topsoil about 2–4 inches deep for burrowing species.
Shelter
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Provide a hide (cork bark, half log, or artificial cave) for your tarantula to feel secure.
Temperature & Humidity
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Ideal temperature: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
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Humidity:
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Desert species: 50–60%
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Tropical species: 70–80%
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Mist occasionally for tropical species, but avoid making the enclosure soggy.
Ventilation
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Proper airflow is crucial to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
🍽️ Feeding Your Tarantula
Tarantulas are carnivores that feed mainly on live prey.
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Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms, and occasional small feeder insects.
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Feeding frequency:
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Juveniles: Every 2–4 days
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Adults: Once a week
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Remove uneaten food after 24 hours to avoid stressing the tarantula.
⚠️ Note: Do not feed wild-caught insects as they may carry pesticides or parasites.
🔄 Molting: A Critical Stage
Tarantulas grow by shedding their exoskeleton in a process called molting.
Signs of molting include:
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Loss of appetite
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Lethargy
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Lying on their back (don’t panic, this is normal!)
During this stage:
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Do not disturb or feed your tarantula.
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Ensure proper humidity to help with the shedding process.
✋ Handling and Safety
Tarantulas are not cuddly pets. They are best admired rather than handled.
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Handling can stress them out and may cause them to jump or bite.
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Tarantulas are fragile—a fall from even a short height can be fatal.
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Some species (especially New World tarantulas) flick urticating hairs that can irritate skin and eyes.
It’s best to limit handling and enjoy your tarantula through observation.
🩺 Common Health Issues
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Dehydration – Signs include shriveled abdomen or lethargy. Always provide a shallow water dish.
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Mites & Mold – Caused by poor ventilation and excess moisture. Keep enclosure clean.
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Injuries – From falls or improper handling. Tarantulas are very delicate.
✅ Final Thoughts
Tarantulas are incredible pets for those who appreciate exotic creatures. They require minimal care, don’t demand constant attention, and can live for decades. However, they are not pets for everyone handling should be minimal, and owners must respect their unique needs.
If you’re ready for a low-maintenance but fascinating pet, a tarantula might be the perfect addition to your exotic pet collection.
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