How to Care for Pet Salamanders
Salamanders, amphibians with tails but no claws or ears, can be great pets for a person of any age. They are relatively easy pets to care for and do not pose any danger either. With that said, it does takes knowledge and dedication to ensure that the environment you provide your salamander is suitable.
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Things You'll Need
- Aquarium
- Medium sized stones
- Bowl
- Insects
- Earthworms
- Soil
- Water
- Chunks of tree bark
Instructions
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Set up the salamander's aquarium before bringing the salamander home. You can find an aquarium at most pet supply stores and the size you choose is up to you. A small to medium sized aquarium is ideal. Put enough soil in the aquarium to cover the entire bottom and then place the stones however you would like on top of the soil. Large chunks of tree bark can be used to make hiding spots as well.
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Put a medium-sized bowl of water in the aquarium and keep it full at all times. The salamander should be able to sit in the bowl of water. Arrange the bowl so that the top of it is level with the soil. The salamander will use this water for drinking as well as keeping itself moist. Salamanders need a moist environment, so it is important to fill it's water bowl every day.
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3
Feed the salamander a diet of crickets, earthworms and all types of insects. You can buy these at pet supply stores or you can catch them yourself. Make sure there are at least two living insects in the cage at all times.
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Keep an eye on the salamander's shedding process. Most salamanders shed their skin weekly. If you notice a piece of skin that appears to be stuck on their body, soak the area in water and gently massage the skin off. This skin may restrict blood flow if it is not removed. Partly shed skin is relatively uncommon for salamanders.
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Handle salamanders only when necessary. Some salamander's skin is too sensitive to be held by human hands and some salamanders produce a toxin that irritates human skin, as well. Also, it is important that your hands are free of perfumes, lotions or other chemicals that may be harmful to you salamander when you hold it because salamanders absorb moisture and nutrients through their skin.
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Tips & Warnings
Salamanders like to hide, so be sure to make at least one hiding spot available to them. Be sure the aquarium lid has proper ventilation and is heavy enough that the salamander is unable to push it open. The aquarium should be out of direct sunlight. If you must remove the salamander from its cage, provide a large leaf or a piece of tree bark for it to sit on.
