Environment
Fact-checked

At AllThingsNature, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Care for a Pet Toad?

Christina Edwards
Christina Edwards

Fish aquariums often make excellent enclosures for pet toads. The bottom of the aquarium should be covered with soil, and a large dish of water should also be provided. A tank for a pet toad can be decorated with small plants, rocks, and logs. Crickets and other small insects can be used as food for pet toads. The enclosure, as well as the toad, should also be kept moist.

A small pet toad can often be kept in a 10-gallon (38-liter) aquarium. Larger toads, however, should be kept in larger aquariums. Twenty-gallon (76-liter) aquariums will make a decent-sized tank for a medium pet toad, for instance. As a general rule, it is best to use the largest aquarium possible.

The aquarium should also have a secure cover to prevent the pet toad from leaping out. Screened covers are usually best. These can either be secured with latches, or a large rock can be placed on top of the cover.

Pet toads are often fed crickets.
Pet toads are often fed crickets.

Setting up a pet toad tank is typically very easy. Around 6 inches (15 centimeters) of soil should be used to cover the bottom of the tank. Bagged soil with fertilizer, including potting soil, should not be used for this purpose. Soil from the toad's natural habitat is usually preferable, but most types of soil can be used.

A large plastic bowl should also be provided for your pet toad. This should be large enough for the toad to swim in, if he so desires. Some toads will only hop in the water for short periods of time, while others will be in the water for very long periods of time. The container should also be sunk into the soil, to provide easy access to the makeshift pool. If possible, the rim of the dish should be level with the surface of the soil.

You should be somewhat careful regarding the water you put in your pet toad's tank. Chlorinated water can harm these animals, so non-chlorinated water is usually recommended. Regular tap water should be put in a large uncovered container and left out for a day before using it in a toad's tank.

Small plants can usually decorate a pet toad's tank. Like the soil, these plants should come from the toad's natural habitat. A place for the toad to hide, like a hollowed out log, should also be provided. Rocks and twigs can also make excellent decorations for the tank.

A pet toad will usually feed on several types of insects. Flies and moths can be caught and released into the cage, along with pill bugs and small worms. Crickets can also be purchased from a pet store and released in the cage. If a wild toad is placed in a tank, he may become very stressed and not eat. Wild toads that have not eaten within a week should be released back where they were found.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of habitat is best for a pet toad?

To create a comfortable environment for a pet toad, aim for a terrarium that mimics their natural habitat. This includes a moist substrate like coconut fiber or sphagnum moss, plenty of hiding spots with rocks or driftwood, and a shallow water dish for soaking. The enclosure should be spacious enough to allow for movement and foraging behavior.

How often should I feed my pet toad and what is the best diet?

Adult toads typically eat 2-3 times a week, while juveniles require daily feeding. A balanced diet consists of live insects such as crickets, earthworms, and mealworms. It's crucial to dust the insects with a calcium supplement and occasionally with a multivitamin to prevent nutritional deficiencies. Always provide fresh water for hydration.

Do pet toads need special lighting or heating?

While toads do not require UVB lighting like some reptiles, they do need a consistent temperature gradient in their enclosure. This can be achieved with a low-wattage heat lamp or under-tank heater, maintaining a temperature between 65-75°F. Avoid overheating and ensure there are cooler areas within the habitat for proper thermoregulation.

How do I handle my pet toad safely?

Handling a pet toad should be minimal as they can stress easily and their skin can absorb harmful substances. When necessary, wash your hands thoroughly before and after to remove any oils or residues. Gently scoop the toad up with both hands, supporting its body, and keep handling sessions brief to reduce stress.

What are common health issues in pet toads and how can I prevent them?

Common health issues in pet toads include skin infections, parasitic infestations, and metabolic bone disease. To prevent these, maintain proper humidity and cleanliness in the enclosure, provide a nutritious diet with supplements, and have regular veterinary check-ups. Observing your toad's behavior and appetite can also help catch issues early.

How can I ensure my pet toad stays hydrated?

Toads absorb water through their skin, so it's essential to provide a shallow water dish for them to soak in. The water should be dechlorinated and changed daily to prevent contamination. Additionally, misting the enclosure regularly helps maintain humidity levels, which supports hydration and overall toad health.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Pet toads are often fed crickets.
      By: viter
      Pet toads are often fed crickets.