How to Take Care of a Salamander

Clean your salamander tank with a diluted bleach solution.

A salamander is a small amphibian that provides a suitable pet that can be contained in a small space. Many people find these to be a safe alternative to a snake or similar reptile that could cause potential harm. Just like any other pet, you must properly care for the salamander.

Things You'll Need

• Aquarium tank with screen lid
• Rubber gloves
• Cleaning rag
• Bleach
• Water pump, optional
• Bark and lily pads
• Nightcrawlers or crickets

Instructions

1. Keep your salamander in a tank with a mesh screen lid. This type of lid prevents the salamander from escaping while still allowing air to circulate through the tank.

2. Remove the salamander and clean the tank weekly. Use rubber gloves when handling the salamander as your body oil can irritate the skin of the salamander.

3. Scrub the tank with a solution of water and 3 percent bleach. Rinse the tank well afterwards with plain water, and dry the tank with a clean rag.

4. Feed the salamander nightly, or every one to three nights depending on the appetite. Feed aquatic salamanders nightcrawlers, and feed terrestrial salamanders live crickets.

5. Use a water pump in aquatic tanks to allow water to circulate.

6. Decorate the tank with bark in terrestrial tanks, or lily pads in aquatic tanks.

References

• Petco Website: Salamander and Newt Care Sheet