The Best Way to Heat a Snake Cage

Snakes are cold-blooded animals and therefore are unable to regulate body temperature. Instead, they rely on the ambient temperature of the environment. As such, it is important for snake owners to ensure that the snake has temperature options that will give it the best comfort.

  1. A Word on Thermometers

    • Each type of snake specie requires a different temperature. Ask your local pet shop staff or consult books about your specific snake. It is critical you know the temperature in the enclosure at all times. To maintain proper temperatures, snake owners should use a thermometer or thermostat. Along with basic thermometers, there are digital thermometers with probes to measure particular spots and the ambient temperature.

    Heat Tapes

    • Heat tapes should be placed under the cage to heat a third to half of the floor. This gives your snake the option of being in the warm half or the cool half, depending on its needs. Ensure that the tape is insulated and guarded from moisture, as it can cause electric shocks if put in contact with water, such as from the water dish. Consider using a Plexiglas cage bottom rather than wood as the heat transfers better. Experts also recommend using a thermostat to measure the temperature of the heat tape.

    Heat Pad

    • With a thermometer, determine the heat pad setting that suits your snake best. Heat pads normally have three heat settings. As with the heat tape, place the pad under half of the cage floor. It can also be placed in the substrate, such as gravel. While the pad should not take up more than half of the cage floor, it should also be big enough for the snake to rest its entire body on the warm spot.

    Heat Lamps

    • These use up more electricity than the heat pads or tapes, but are ideal for tree-climbing snakes. To save on electricity, set up the lamp with a timer so it can cycle on or off, depending on the time of day. A white-light bulb should not be used 24 hours a day and must also be set up with a cover so the snake does not burn itself on the bulb. The bulb should be on for a maximum of 15 hours, as snakes do need darkness as well.

    Ceramic Emitters

    • Instead of using light to provide heat, ceramic emitters give off radiant heat. These are best for nocturnal snakes.

    Radiant Panels

    • Though the most expensive heating device, radiant panels make up for the cost by lasting a long time. These panels are commonly used in cages of large snakes.