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My red knee tarantula is climbing, won't eat, and has mites. Help!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Spiders & Insects | Unknown - Spiders & Insects | Female | unspayed

I have a seven year old red knee female tarantula. She has been climbing her tank and has been extremely active and refuses to eat. Recently I have noticed a few mites in her tank on which I haven't experienced before. I think maybe perhaps I need new substrate and maybe a bigger tank. What do you suggest?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 10th, 2018

The enclosure should be at least as wide as 3 times the length of her legs and twice as tall as the length of her legs. Most will do well in a 10 gallon tank, but if have the space and want to "splurge" a 20 gallon tank would be quite spacious. If you don't have the space or budget, then clean and sanitize her current enclosure. Add enough substrate (about half way up) to allow for burrowing.
Confirm proper temperature and humidity as either may result in stress if incorrect.
You can review care instructions here: http://www.tarantulapets.com/mexican-red-knee-tarantula-b-smithi/
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