Like many, my fascination with spiders began unexpectedly in a local pet store. Amidst the usual hamsters and lizards, a large aquarium housed a creature that captivated my young mind: a tarantula. This wasn’t some fleeting encounter from a horror movie; this was a real, imposing spider, close enough to touch. It was a Mexican redknee tarantula (Brachypelma smithi), an iconic species in the world of Pet Spiders, and it sparked a lifelong passion.
Years later, that fascination blossomed into a dedicated hobby. My collection grew to over 130 species, and as a teacher, sharing my knowledge about these amazing arachnids became a natural extension of my passion, leading to the creation of Tom’s Big Spiders, a resource for fellow enthusiasts.
While many visitors to my site are already devoted to or seriously considering keeping tarantulas, a significant number are still undecided, wondering if a large, hairy spider is the right pet for them. My love for pet spiders is undeniable, but experience has taught me that they aren’t a perfect fit for everyone. Like any pet, keeping spiders comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Anyone thinking about welcoming an eight-legged friend into their home should be fully aware of both the positives and potential challenges.
So, let’s explore the world of pet spiders, dissecting the pros and cons to help you determine if a tarantula is the right pet for you.
The Upsides of Choosing a Pet Spider
Minimal Space Requirements
One of the most appealing aspects of pet spiders, particularly tarantulas, is their modest space needs. Despite their often impressive size (some species reaching leg spans of 5-6 inches or more), they require surprisingly little room compared to many other common pets. A 5 to 10-gallon enclosure, similar in size to a small aquarium, is often sufficient for a fully grown tarantula. This compact footprint allows spider enthusiasts to house their pets comfortably on shelves, desks, dressers, or even nightstands. This makes pet spiders an ideal choice for apartment dwellers, bedrooms, classrooms, or office environments where space might be at a premium.
The small space requirement also fuels another popular aspect of the hobby: collecting. Because they are so space-efficient, many spider keepers find themselves acquiring multiple specimens, building collections of diverse species. This leads us to another significant advantage…
A Diverse World of Species to Explore
A vibrant Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula (Avicularia versicolor), showcasing the stunning colors found in pet spider species.
When people think of pet spiders, the image that often comes to mind is a generic, large, brown, hairy tarantula. However, the reality is far more diverse and captivating. There are over 900 known species of tarantulas alone, each with unique characteristics, sizes, patterns, and colors. The world of pet spiders is incredibly varied.
You can find terrestrial species, which spend most of their time on the ground; fossorial species, masters of burrowing and creating underground homes; and breathtaking arboreal species, adapted to life among the trees. Some species thrive in dry, arid conditions, while others require more humid environments.
The color palette of pet spiders is equally astonishing. Beyond browns and blacks, you’ll discover species boasting vibrant blues, greens, oranges, and even purples. When I first began researching pet spiders, I was skeptical of the vividly colored images I encountered, assuming they were digitally enhanced. I was amazed to learn that these dazzling colors are entirely natural and real. The sheer variety in patterning, coloration, size, and habitat needs makes choosing a pet spider an exciting journey of discovery, offering a multitude of fascinating options for any prospective keeper.
Exceptionally Low Maintenance Pets
For many of us accustomed to the daily demands of furry pets – frequent feedings, enclosure cleaning, walks, and annual vet visits – the low-maintenance nature of pet spiders can be a welcome surprise. Forget about daily feeding routines; pet spiders only need to eat an appropriately sized meal once a week, or even less frequently, to maintain their health. They are also remarkably clean animals, not requiring constant bedding or substrate changes.
Owners starting with spiderlings or juvenile spiders will need to transfer them to larger enclosures as they grow, a process known as “rehousing.” Most spiderlings will require a couple of rehousings before reaching adulthood. However, once settled in their adult homes, pet spiders can remain on the same substrate for years. Regular spot cleaning to remove food remnants (called boluses) and shed exoskeletons (molts) is usually sufficient. Spider waste is minimal, often absorbed into the substrate, and any mess on the enclosure walls can be easily wiped away with a damp paper towel. Beyond this, ensuring a fresh water source (in a shallow dish – no sponge needed, they won’t drown!) is the primary ongoing care requirement. Pet spiders truly exemplify low-maintenance pet ownership.
Budget-Friendly Pet Option
The minimal needs of pet spiders translate to significant cost savings, making them one of the most affordable pets to keep. Elaborate enclosures and expensive heating equipment are generally unnecessary. Many experienced keepers successfully house their spiders in simple, inexpensive containers purchased from general stores. My first pet spider, affectionately named The Queen, lived happily for her first decade in a modified plastic storage bin costing less than $3. The truth is, a pet spider will thrive just as well in a basic plastic container as in a fancy glass terrarium, giving owners considerable flexibility in how much they choose to spend on housing. A basic setup for an adult pet spider requires only an enclosure, suitable substrate (coco fiber or topsoil are excellent choices), a hide (cork bark is a popular and natural option), and a water dish. That’s all. Since they thrive at normal room temperatures (above the mid-60s Fahrenheit) and don’t require special lighting, there’s no need for costly heating lamps or heat mats. A thrifty owner could easily create a comfortable and appropriate home for their new pet spider for under $20.
Affordable and practical plastic storage bins repurposed as secure and comfortable enclosures for pet spiders.
Considering their infrequent feeding habits – often just a couple of times a month – the ongoing cost of keeping pet spiders is remarkably low compared to other pets. Feeding a pet spider crickets weekly might only cost around $0.60 per month. Mealworms are another cost-effective option, and uneaten mealworms can be refrigerated for later use. Dedicated keepers with larger collections may even breed their own feeder insects like mealworms or roaches, ensuring a constant and inexpensive food supply.
Even the spiders themselves can be quite affordable. While mature, sexed adult spiders can command higher prices, spiderlings (baby spiders) are often available for under $50. Furthermore, pet spiders don’t require routine veterinary checkups, vaccinations, or expensive medications. Most pet spiders will live healthy lives from spiderling to adulthood with minimal health issues, adding to their appeal as a budget-friendly pet choice.
Rewarding Habitat Design
A beautifully decorated acrylic enclosure with live plants, showcasing the potential for creating aesthetically pleasing pet spider habitats.
For many enthusiasts, the creative aspect of designing naturalistic and visually appealing enclosures is a significant part of the enjoyment of keeping pet spiders. While elaborate setups aren’t essential for the spider’s well-being, they can greatly enhance the keeper’s experience. Moving beyond purely functional setups, some hobbyists choose premium glass or acrylic enclosures and incorporate natural elements like live plants, moss, leaf litter, and custom backgrounds. These meticulously crafted habitats can bring a touch of nature indoors and become captivating focal points in any room, sparking conversation and admiration from visitors. For some, creating stunning, visually engaging homes for their pet spiders becomes as integral to the hobby as maintaining a beautiful aquarium is for fish keepers.
Impressive Longevity
The Queen, a Grammostola porteri tarantula, lived for over 25 years, highlighting the long lifespan of many pet spider species.
When I acquired my first pet spider, a young adult Grammostola porteri (Rose Hair Tarantula) in the mid-1990s, I worried about her lifespan. My concerns were quickly dispelled. This spider, who became known as The Queen, lived for over 26 years under my care. Female tarantulas, in particular, are known for their remarkable longevity, with many species living for 10 to 30 years or even longer. Many popular “beginner” pet spiders are slow-growing species that can easily live for two decades or more. While males typically have shorter lifespans, many can still live for 5 years or longer. If you are seeking a pet with a substantial lifespan and a long-term companion, certain pet spider species are excellent contenders.
Overcoming Arachnophobia
When I first started keeping pet spiders in the 90s, a part of my motivation was to overcome my own lifelong fear of spiders. It took time and patience, but interacting with tarantulas helped me completely conquer my arachnophobia.
And I am not alone.
Over the years, I have spoken with countless pet spider keepers who initially harbored a fear of spiders. Now, they are not only comfortable around spiders but have completely overcome their phobia. It may seem counterintuitive, but many people find the large, hairy tarantulas less intimidating than the smaller, more common house spiders. Consequently, they find it easier to interact with tarantulas without triggering the same level of fear they might experience with a wolf spider, for example. For those who keep pet spiders, the fascination and engagement in caring for these creatures gradually replace fear with respect and, eventually, admiration.
Sheer Fascination
Search for “tarantula feeding videos” on YouTube, and you’ll find thousands of videos with millions of views, all dedicated to showcasing the feeding habits of these captivating creatures. There’s an undeniable intrigue in watching a 6-inch arachnid perform the “tarantula happy dance,” spinning and webbing its prey.
Feeding time is just one of the many captivating aspects of keeping pet spiders. Raising a spider from a tiny spiderling to a robust adult is an amazing and rewarding experience. Even after witnessing hundreds of molts, I still find myself in awe each time a spider undergoes this incredible shedding process. For those who venture into breeding pet spiders, they unlock one of the most fulfilling and awe-inspiring facets of the hobby.
And sometimes, simply observing them, even when they are seemingly inactive, is fascinating. After all, it is a giant spider. By their very nature, pet spiders are inherently cool and endlessly fascinating animals.
The Downsides to Consider Before Getting a Pet Spider
Not Affectionate or Cuddly Pets
Unfortunately, if you’re looking for a pet that offers affection and companionship in the way a dog, cat, or even a rat does, a pet spider is not the right choice. While debates about spider intelligence continue, and anecdotal evidence suggests they may be capable of learning, they are not wired for affection. Just as you wouldn’t expect to cuddle with a fish, most experienced keepers agree that pet spiders should be appreciated from a respectful distance.
While some handlers report that their spiders seem to become accustomed to interaction, there’s no scientific evidence to suggest they enjoy or benefit from handling. Furthermore, a pet spider’s temperament can shift with each molt, meaning a docile spider might become more skittish or defensive after shedding its skin. If your ideal pet is one that will curl up on your lap while you watch a movie, a furry, more conventional pet is a better fit.
Legal Restrictions in Certain Areas
While uncommon, some localities, states, or even countries have restrictions on keeping pet spiders. In some cases, the restrictions apply only to specific species, while others may prohibit keeping any venomous arachnids. It’s crucial to research and understand your local laws and regulations before acquiring a pet spider to ensure compliance.
Venomous and Defensive Nature
It’s essential to remember that pet spiders, while often docile, are still exotic animals and are not domesticated. If they feel threatened or insecure, they are equipped with fangs and venom as defense mechanisms. Most species popular as “beginner” pet spiders are New World tarantulas, originating from North and South America and surrounding islands. These species possess relatively mild venom; a bite from one is generally considered comparable to a bee or wasp sting in terms of severity. However, New World tarantulas also have a secondary defense: urticating hairs. These are irritating, barbed bristles on their abdomens that they can kick off in a cloud when feeling threatened. These hairs can lodge in the skin, causing burning, itching, and discomfort. Responsible handling and respectful care significantly minimize the risk of bites or urticating hair encounters. However, potential owners must be aware of these inherent defense mechanisms.
Unappealing Feeder Insects
Dubia roaches, a common and nutritious feeder insect for pet spiders.
Surprisingly, for some pet spider keepers, the biggest hurdle isn’t the spider itself but the feeder insects required to sustain them. Individuals squeamish around insects might find the crickets, roaches, or mealworms used as spider prey to be repulsive. I’ve encountered keepers who dread feeding time due to their aversion to handling feeder insects. Others struggle with the ethical aspect of feeding live prey, finding it difficult to watch.
Negative Reactions from Others
Recently, my wife, who is also involved in the pet spider hobby, shared photos of some spider molts on her social media. Despite explaining that we keep pet spiders as pets, one of her “friends” responded by boasting about how many spiders they had killed. Sadly, pet spider enthusiasts are accustomed to such negative reactions – comments like “I would smash it,” “Kill it,” and “Burn that thing” are common when sharing their passion. Some people have even told me they would avoid visiting my home after learning I keep spiders.
Arachnophobia is a prevalent phobia worldwide, and fear often breeds revulsion. Instead of appreciating spiders’ ecological benefits and unique nature, many people harbor intense dislike or fear. Pet spider keepers who wish to share their enthusiasm with friends and family may face hostility or misunderstanding. Worse still, individuals living with roommates or family members may encounter resistance when proposing to bring a pet spider into the home. Personally, I was forbidden from keeping pet spiders at home due to my mother’s arachnophobia. If you live with others, it’s crucial to address potential concerns and objections early in the consideration process.
Potential to Attract Irresponsible Keepers
In my years within the pet spider hobby, I’ve observed that enthusiasts come from diverse backgrounds – teachers, doctors, lawyers, veterinarians, and retirees, among others. The stereotype of pet spider keepers as heavily tattooed social outcasts is outdated and inaccurate.
However, it’s undeniable that some individuals are drawn to pet spiders for the wrong reasons. They are attracted to the perceived “scary” or “dangerous” image and acquire spiders solely to project an image of bravery or recklessness. A quick search online reveals sensationalized videos of keepers showcasing “aggressive” or “deadly” spiders for views. Some practice poor husbandry to provoke “aggressive” displays, keeping adult spiders in cramped enclosures with insufficient substrate. Others engage in reckless handling, teasing their spiders, or posing with highly venomous species for social media attention. These individuals are detrimental to the hobby, endangering themselves and their animals while reinforcing negative stereotypes about spiders. Pet spiders are not toys or domesticated animals; they deserve keepers who treat them with respect, prioritize their well-being, and represent the hobby responsibly and safely.
Highly Addictive Hobby
A portion of a large pet spider collection, illustrating the addictive nature of the hobby for some enthusiasts.
Perhaps this should be framed as a warning rather than a con, but it’s a reality worth noting: the pet spider hobby can be incredibly addictive. Whenever someone tells me they are getting their first pet spider, I always jokingly caution, “Be careful: they are addictive!” Most initially laugh it off, but months later, many contact me again, now keeping dozens of these creatures. It’s a common phenomenon for those who start with one pet spider to eventually acquire more. It took me years after getting my Grammostola porteri to truly become deeply immersed in the hobby, but I now have a collection of over 200 spiders. While I am an extreme example, collections of 30 or more are not uncommon. If you are prone to collecting, consider yourself warned…
So, Are Pet Spiders Right for You?
For those seeking an unconventional and truly fascinating pet, a pet spider can be an exceptional choice. Beautiful, resilient, and endlessly captivating, these incredible arachnids are far more than the terrifying creatures often portrayed in media. With respectful care and responsible ownership, they can provide years of enjoyment and wonder.
If you are considering keeping a pet spider, thorough research is essential. Websites like Tom’s Big Spiders are designed with beginners in mind, offering current information based on personal experience. Additionally, consider joining online pet spider forums or social media groups to connect with experienced keepers and learn from their insights.
Tom Moran – Tom’s Big Spiders
