How to Play With a Pet Hermit Crab
Playing with your hermit crab is not only fun, but necessary to your crab's well-being. Regular playtime and exercise helps keep hermit crabs healthy and provides them with a physical routine that is found in their natural environments. Use hula hoops, rocks and hamster balls to engage your hermit crabs in a bit of play!
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Lift up your crab by the back of its shell and place it in the palm of your hand.
-
2
Provide a smooth or continuous walking surface for your crab. Place your crab on a different surface (like a tile or linoleum floor) or allow your crab to walk from one of your palms to another. Do not allow your crab to walk on your fingers; the surface area on them may not be able to support your crab and it may pinch as a result.
-
-
3
Build a mini-obstacle course for your hermit crab. Arrange rocks, driftwood and other toys on the floor. Watch as your hermit crab scales and explores the objects.
-
4
Place a hula hoop on the floor. Run a piece of colored tape across one of the ends. Put your crab (or two) in the middle of the hoop and watch as it races to the other side of the tape.
-
5
Put your hermit crab in a plastic hamster ball. Allow your crab to roll and explore his surroundings without the threat of accident or injury.
-
6
Keep an eye on your crab. Watching your crab's behavior and being sensitive to your crab's boundaries limits the risk of accidents and pinching.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
After buying a hermit crab from a pet store, do not attempt to play with your crabs for the first few days. This time is better spent making sure your crab is well fed. It also provides time for your crab to become accustomed to your presence.
Use gloves to get a particularly nervous crab used to regular handling.
Exercise is very important for hermit crabs. Consider making regular "play dates" with them.
Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling your hermit crabs.
