Your tarantula and molting

Molting is a process tarantulas go though as they grow. They shed off their old skin much like snakes. The entire molting process is a very difficult and strenuous experience for your pet spider.

A couple of weeks prior to molting your spider will most likely refuse to eat. You may also notice small clear droplets of fluid seeping from its leg joints. This phenomenon does not happen to all tarantulas, so do not be alarmed if you do or do not witness this. The spider may also lose hairs on its abdomen and will appear to have a bald spot.

Your tarantula will lie on its back and appear as if it is dead when it is ready to molt. There may also be webbing around the body.

If you look inside your pet’s cage and notice your spider on it’s back do not be alarmed. Just leave it be and do not disturb the spider. Disturbing your tarantula during the molting process could result in its death. The molting process can take anywhere from fifteen minutes to several hours.

Once your tarantula has emerged from its old skin, it will be extremely soft, tender and sensitive. If you handle your tarantula, do not do so for at least a week after it has molted.

Make sure the spider has fresh water do not attempt to feed your spider for at least three days after molting. A cricket can possibly harm or injure your tarantula if not enough time is given for your pet’s skin to harden.

One amazing thing associated with the molting process of tarantulas is the regeneration properties. If the spider is missing a leg it can be regenerated during the molting process. The new leg will usually be smaller and not as useable as the original.