How to Know if a Pet Scorpion is Ill

Scorpions are hardy and not subject to illness. If your pet scorpion starts behaving oddly, there are a few other possibilities you should explore first. The following steps can help you determine what the problem might be.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Make sure your scorpion is happy with its environment. Although humidity requirements can vary considerably, most scorpions like hot, quiet enclosures with places to hide.
2. Relax and let your scorpion become accustomed to his new surroundings. Your scorpion could still be stressed from the pet store. It may take a week for the scorpion to settle down from the noise and crowded conditions of a typical pet store.
   
3. Check to see if your scorpion is pregnant or about to molt. Either of these conditions can make your scorpion much more aggressive. Don't move or otherwise disturb your scorpion at these times.
   
4. Investigate the possibility of a mite infestation. This can be a major problem with scorpions and the best solution is preventative maintenance. Sterilize sand and other natural materials by baking in the oven when setting up the enclosure. Also check the live prey for mites with a magnifying glass before placing it in the enclosure.
   
5. Clean an existing enclosure as a last resort and only if you have confirmed a mite infestation. Moving the scorpion to temporary housing can be quite stressful. Disinfect the original enclosure with a mild soap and follow up with a mild ammonia-based cleaner because the soap can be toxic. Let the enclosure air out and dry thoroughly before returning the scorpion.
6. Feed your scorpion properly. Scorpions generally don't need to eat more than one or two times a week so it can be easy to overfeed them.