Adult tarantulas molt once a year, while young tarantulas experience this more often. Before the animal molts, you will find a number of physical and behavioral changes. Because this process can be difficult for the tarantula, there are special care steps that must be kept in mind, both during the molting process and after.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Checking for Signs of a Tarantula Moulting
Step 1. Notice the tarantula's reduced movement
Does your pet tarantula move less? Tarantulas often have reduced or no movement at all during molting to conserve energy. If your tarantula hasn't moved much lately, it may be shedding its skin.
Step 2. Watch for tarantulas that are reluctant to eat
Does your tarantula want to eat? Before molting, the tarantula will stop eating for some time, from a few weeks to several months. If you notice the animal is not going or eating less, this could be an indication that it is about to shed its skin.
Step 3. Check for any clear liquid droplets
Some tarantulas can secrete droplets of clear fluid between the joints of their feet. This could be an indication that he is about to shed his skin. Check to see if you can find the drip, but note that not all tarantulas do this before molting.
Step 4. Watch the tarantula's hair thinning or turning bald
Some types of tarantulas will lose their upper body hair before molting. You may notice thinning hair or signs of baldness on the tarantula's upper body. If there is, it's a good sign that the tarantula will shed its skin soon.
The tarantula's upper body may also appear darker and shinier than usual before it molts
Step 5. Check the position of your tarantula
What is the current position of the animal? When it molts, the tarantula will lie on its back or side to make it easier for the old skin to come off. This occurs when the tarantula is undergoing a molting process that usually lasts for several hours. If your pet tarantula is lying on its back or side, it may be trying to peel off its old skin.
The tarantula's legs will curl under its body when it dies. If the tarantula is lying with its legs curled inward, it may be dead or dying
Method 2 of 2: Caring for a Tarantula During and After Moulting
Step 1. Do not disturb your pet tarantula
Tarantulas can be injured or even die if disturbed during molting. Therefore, it is very important to leave him alone during the process. Do not disturb the tarantula when it shows signs of molting until at least a week after the process is complete.
Wait at least one week after the molting process is complete to pick up/hold your pet tarantula
Step 2. Remove the exoskeleton from the cage after the tarantula molts
Once the tarantula molts, you can remove the exoskeleton from the cage. Use tweezers to pick it up and remove it.
Step 3. Do not feed the tarantula for three to five days after molting
Tarantulas will feel sensitive and easily hurt after molting. This means that prey animals can harm the tarantula. Therefore, do not feed the tarantula for a few days after it molts.
