Snails are fascinating creatures that can make great pets for people of all ages. They are relatively low-maintenance and can be kept in a small space. If you are thinking about getting a pet snail, here are some things you need to know about how to keep them healthy and happy.

How to Keep a Pet Snail

Habitat

The first thing you need to do is create a suitable habitat for your snail. Snails need a warm, humid environment with plenty of hiding places. You can create a terrarium for your snail by using a glass or plastic container with a lid. The container should be at least 10 gallons in size for a single snail. Make sure to add a substrate to the bottom of the terrarium, such as coconut fiber or peat moss. The substrate should be moist but not wet. You should also add some hiding places for your snail, such as rocks, logs, or leaves.

Diet

Snails are herbivores and their diet consists mainly of plants. You can feed your snail a variety of vegetables, fruits, and herbs. Some good choices include lettuce, carrots, apples, and spinach. You can also give your snail a calcium supplement to help keep its shell healthy. Make sure to remove any uneaten food from the terrarium within 24 hours to prevent it from spoiling.

Water

Snails need access to fresh water at all times. You can provide water for your snail by placing a shallow dish of water in the terrarium. The dish should be shallow enough for your snail to climb in and out of easily. You should also mist the terrarium with water daily to help keep the humidity level high.

Temperature

Snails are cold-blooded animals and their body temperature is regulated by the temperature of their environment. The ideal temperature for a snail is between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too high or too low, your snail may become stressed or even die. You can regulate the temperature in the terrarium using a heat lamp or a heating pad.

Care

Snails are relatively low-maintenance pets, but they do require some basic care. You should clean the terrarium regularly to remove any waste or uneaten food. You should also mist the terrarium with water daily to help keep the humidity level high. You should also handle your snail gently to avoid injuring it. Snails can live for up to 10 years in captivity, so they can make great long-term pets.