Keeping insects and spiders as pets: Intro to invertebrate care

To most people, the idea of having insects or spiders in their house, much less willingly, is something of an alien concept! However, to many, keeping a spider or insect as a pet can be fascinating, with unique appeal. These creatures are part of the animal grouping known as invertebrates, which includes millions of species worldwide with no backbone. This group excludes mammals, birds, reptiles, fish, and amphibians, making it one of the largest and most diverse animal categories.

What kinds of invertebrates can be kept as pets?

Many invertebrates make popular pets in the UK, including stick insects, hissing cockroaches, praying mantis, millipedes, and of course, tarantulas. These creatures require little space and relatively low maintenance compared to cats or dogs. They generally do not need to be tamed or handled frequently; indeed, minimal handling is recommended to avoid stress and injury. Many owners find them fascinating to observe, given their unique behaviours.

However, each species has special needs, including housing, safety, feeding, and hygiene, so they should not be chosen merely as novel pets or for show.

Picking a suitable pet invertebrate

Choosing your first pet invertebrate usually comes down to deciding between insect or spider species. For beginners, it's best to select hardy species that are relatively easy to care for and docile, with low risk to handlers. While children may enjoy watching invertebrates, they should not handle them unsupervised, both for their safety and the animal's welfare.

• Stick and leaf insects are some of the gentlest pets, rarely biting, but they are physically fragile and require careful handling.
• Hissing cockroaches are robust and docile, making them an excellent choice for novices due to their hardiness and ease of care.
• Tarantulas are in their own class, with venomous bites generally comparable to a bee sting in beginners' species. They can also possess urticating hairs, which may cause irritation if contact with skin or eyes occurs. Due to these risks, tarantulas should be kept only by people willing to research extensively and handle them with great care. Popular beginner tarantulas include the Chilean Rose tarantula and the Mexican Redknee.

Important care considerations

• Check regulations carefully before purchasing, especially for venomous or exotic species.
• Understand the lifespan of your chosen pet; many insects live months, but some tarantulas can live over 20 years with good care.
• Learn correct handling techniques to keep both you and your pet safe. Consider how you'll clean the enclosure without stressing the animal.
• Know the feeding requirements; many spiders eat live insects, which entails sourcing and housing live prey responsibly.
• Assess the venomous potential and other hazards, planning for emergencies and considering family members' feelings, especially if anyone fears spiders.

Essential habitat and feeding tips

Provide a secure enclosure with ventilation and substrate resembling your pet’s natural habitat. Maintain appropriate temperature, humidity, and include hiding places for security. Feeding generally involves live prey such as crickets, mealworms or roaches, aligned with your pet’s size and feeding frequency which may be every few days. Clean the enclosure regularly to avoid pests and illness, removing uneaten food and waste promptly.

Handling and interaction advice

Most invertebrates do not enjoy handling, which can stress or harm them. For tarantulas, minimise direct contact to avoid bites or irritation from urticating hairs. Children should be supervised and educated about gentle observation rather than direct interaction. Appreciating your invertebrate pet’s behaviour from a distance is often more rewarding and safer for all.

Final thoughts on responsible ownership

Keeping insects and spiders as pets offers a unique, educational, and low-maintenance companion experience. However, commitment to meeting their specific care and safety needs is vital. Avoid choosing these pets for novelty alone and always prioritise their welfare and the safety of your household. By approaching care responsibly, invertebrate pets can delight with fascinating behaviours and enrich your understanding of nature.

For more options on invertebrate pets available in the UK, you may browse reputable sources such as invertebrates for sale.

Common questions about keeping insects and spiders as pets

Are invertebrates good pets for beginners?

Quick Answer: Yes, certain species like stick insects and hissing cockroaches are suitable for beginners due to their hardy nature and simple care requirements.

These species require less space and maintenance than traditional pets and can provide a fascinating introduction to animal care and biology. Beginners should, however, fully research care needs and start with docile species to build confidence.

Can tarantulas be dangerous to humans?

Quick Answer: Tarantula bites are usually no more dangerous than a bee sting but can cause irritation. Some species have urticating hairs that may irritate the skin or eyes.

Most tarantulas kept as pets have mild venom, and serious reactions are rare except in allergic individuals. Proper handling and knowledge of potential risks minimise harm, making them manageable pets for committed owners.

How often should I feed my pet spider?

Quick Answer: Feeding frequency depends on species and age; generally, young spiders need feeding every 2-3 days, while adults may eat less often.

Spiders usually consume live insects like crickets or mealworms. It’s important to monitor their feeding patterns and adjust accordingly to prevent overfeeding or starvation. Keeping live prey requires preparation and commitment.

Are there any legal restrictions on keeping venomous invertebrates?

Quick Answer: Yes, some venomous species may be regulated by UK laws requiring permits or prohibiting ownership altogether.

Before acquiring venomous invertebrates, always consult local regulations and ensure you comply with legal requirements. This protects you, your family, and wildlife.