How to Treat Corn Snakes

The corn snake is a constrictor that is part of the Elaphe genus. The snake, also known as the "red rat snake," is one of the most common types of pet snakes out there. The thin reptiles appear in gray, brown, brownish-red and orange and are covered by brown and red patches. Before acquiring a corn snake as a pet, understand the proper treatment and care for the animal.

Things You'll Need

  • Tank
  • Live or frozen food (mice or rats)
  • Substrate
  • Shoebox
  • Branches
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Instructions

    • 1

      Get your corn snake an enclosure. A suitable option is a tank with a minimum of 20 gallons, although 30 gallons is optimal. Make sure that the tank is securely covered with a screen that locks, as a tough corn snake may be able to force its way out otherwise.

    • 2

      Set up the interior of the snake tank. Seek out bedding substrate that is gentle and absorbent, such as aspen shavings. Other options are newspaper and cypress mulch. Stay away from any types of fragrant wood like cedar or pine. Sand also is not recommended as it could bring upon impactions. Make sure your corn snake has a place to sleep or hide out within the enclosure, such as a shoebox. When the snakes feel stressed, hiding spots can be very useful for them. To recreate a natural atmosphere for your corn snake, consider adding in branches and small artificial plants. If you add branches, debug them beforehand by submerging them in a blend of water and chlorine.

    • 3

      Feed your corn snake every seven to 10 days. The carnivorous snakes consume prey such as lizards and rodents. Frozen (thawed) rats and mice are suitable food for corn snakes, and can easily be purchased at pet stores. Mice are beneficial for corn snakes as they provide ample protein and essential vitamins and minerals. Thaw your snake's food and put it on a dish and allow it to eat it on its own. Check up on the food in several hours, however. If the snake hasn't consumed it, dispose of it as it may have gone bad due to the elapsed time. Always provide your snake with fresh and clean water. Put it in a shallow bowl and clean it regularly.

    • 4

      Understand the temperament of a corn snake. To treat and care for a corn snake, learn about its natural temperament, which is defensive and anxious. When you first acquire a corn snake, whether it is a baby or an adult, refrain from handling it unless it is absolutely vital. Wait until your snake has eaten a real meal three or four times, and then try to make contact with it. Go near your snake via the side and not from above, as that may remind it of a predator. Softly and firmly lift it up to hold it. If you behave in an uncertain manner, that could cause the snake to become fearful and get away or bite you.

    • 5

      Hold your corn snake appropriately. The strong snakes generally do not wrap around human arms as pythons do. When you hold a corn snake, be sure to give its body sturdy support without holding its head in.