There are about 90.5 million pet owners in the U.S., and some of them own a pet cockroach. Are you also thinking of owning one? It may sound a bit strange, right?
However, pet cockroaches aren’t as gross and scary as one might think. There’s a growing trend of people taking care of cockroaches as pets. So, if you’re hesitant about this idea, check out this guide first.
If you’re ready to become a pet parent, discover the joys of pet ownership with a cockroach! Although often feared, cockroaches are quite endearing and easy to care for.
In this guide, we’ll tell you about the care of cockroaches and why people keep them as pets. Keep reading to learn the basics of cockroach care in our helpful guide.
Building a Habitat
When building a habitat for a pet cockroach, it is important to research the type of roach you have, as this will determine the specific requirements for the habitat. Consider the environment cockroaches thrive in, such as darkness and high humidity, and build accordingly.
Start with a plastic or glass container with holes for ventilation and space for the roach to climb, as well as material such as paper towels to absorb moisture. Also, add some sticks and ornaments to the container to provide the roach with a sense of security and space to explore.
Lastly, ensure that your roach’s habitat is kept in a warm and humid area, as this will offer your pet the best opportunity to stay healthy and thrive. If you’re ready to have pet insects, you can start out with a dubia roach colony.
Providing Food and Water
Start by researching the type of diet your pet cockroach needs and providing a variety of nutritious food. This can include dried fruit, grains, legumes, leafy greens, and some vegetables.
Make sure to keep any food items you provide in non-metal containers and replace the food daily. You can also supplement the diet of your pet cockroach with fresh fruits and vegetables.
In terms of water, provide a shallow bowl filled with damp paper towels or coco peat-containing dirt. Your pet cockroach should also have a water bottle that is filled every day and kept at room temperature. This water bottle should not be placed in direct sunlight, as this can cause mold and bacteria to grow.
Proper Handling
Be sure to wash your hands before and after handling your pet to reduce the chances of spreading germs or other diseases. When it comes to physically handling your pet cockroach, use slow, steady motions to avoid startling it. Pick it up gently with two fingers and avoid squeezing or putting unnecessary pressure on its body.
When transferring your roach between containers, use a cardboard tube, which it can walk into, keeping it safe and comfortable throughout the journey. Once inside its new home, give your cockroach time to adjust and enjoy the environment. Finally, always keep in mind the natural behavior of your pet and do not handle it more than is necessary.
Enjoy Life with a Pet Cockroach
When taking care of a pet cockroach, always prioritize its safety and health. To ensure the best care for your pet cockroach, consider following the guide provided above for best practices.
Have more questions about cockroach care? Don’t hesitate to reach out to a local pet store or consult a vet for more information.
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