MyReticulated Python

If you’re serious about owning a reticulated python, it’s imperative that you have the right equipment. The reticulated python makes a unique and fascinating pet, but only if you know what you are doing. As mentioned in other articles on this site, this species of snake can grow up to 33 feet long–imagine having that in your basement or living room! It’s a very aggressive snake and, especially around feeding time, can behave unpredictably. Before deciding to buy a reticulated python, take a look at some of the equipment you will need.

Water Dish

The reticulated python gets thirsty. Remember–most of this species lives close to fresh water marshes, ponds and streams. Give your snake water every day or provide a clean, large and shallow dish of water so the snake can drink at its own leisure

Food

The reticulated python also gets hungry. Match the food with the size of your snake. Small, juvenile pythons can eat mice, medium-sized pythons (around 4-5 feet long) can eat large, adult rats and larger pythons (10+ feet) can eat rabbits or chickens.

Enclosure

The reticulated python is a beast of a snake. It’s important to have a safe, well-spaced enclosure. Even if you buy a juvenile as a pet, keep in mind that they can grow up to thirty feet long! You’ll have to change the size of the cage as the reticulated python grows. Small, juvenile pythons will feel insecure and unsettled in too large of an enclosure. Of course, a large snake in a small enclosure is bad news. Their extremely powerful muscles can break through non-secure cages..you don’t want a loose reticulated python slithering about. Trust me.

Your cage should be free of sharp edges, easy to disinfect, ventilated and able to hold heat at the same time. If you’re designing a custom cage, avoid unfinished wood and porous surfaces.

Cage Substrate

The cage isn’t enough–you need to line it with a substrate. Specialty bark manufactured for reptiles is a good choice, as it’s easy to clean. Of course, you can also use newspapers and paper towels. They’re cheap and easy.

Heating Pad

Remember, a reticulated python needs to be in an environment that’s at least 75 degrees Fahrenheit for proper health and digestion. After all, these snakes are from Southeast Asia. Make your climate warm and tropical. A heat rock isn’t enough. Invest in a proper heating pad specific for reptiles. There are plenty out there.

Basking Bulb

A basking bulb is another way to heat your container and can create and sustain an atmosphere of around 90 degrees Fahrenhit. Toasty! With your heating pad or basking bulb, be sure to buy a thermometer to ensure that the temperature is in the right range. Yes–it’s possible to have too hot of a cage.