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Before purchasing your boa make sure that you have a place to keep your pet. A large aquarium with a secured screen top is an ideal cage for your snake. You will also need a heat lamp for the snake to bask. The ideal cage temperature should be between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The basking area should be between 90 and 95 degrees. You will also need to place a bowl that is large enough for the snake to bathe in. You can line the bottom of the cage with recycled newspaper. It's important to clean the cage out at least twice a month.
Feeding a boa constrictor requires the purchase of live or frozen rodents. A snake eats every 14 days and it is good to keep them on a strict feeding schedule. There is a debate on whether a boa will eat food that is already dead. If started at an early age most boas will eat frozen food. It's easier, more humane and also less expensive than live food. Most pet stores that sell snakes carry frozen food for your boa. Proper feeding is important for the growth of your snake.
Shedding is a natural function for snakes. A healthy boa should shed his skin anywhere from once a month to once every 2 months. If the snake isn't shedding much, then he probably isn't getting the right nutrients. Increase the amount the snake is eating. If the snake still isn't growing, then consult a vet. Before the onset of shedding the snakes eyes will appear cloudy, and he may stop eating until the shedding is complete. After the snake has shed his skin, he will appear clear-eyed and smooth. Make sure there is something in the cage for the snake to rub against like a rock or a tree branch.
When first bringing your snake home, you may find that he's a bit shy or that he resists being handled. This can take time, but almost all boas are easily tamed and actually begin to look forward to being held by their owners. Most boas are good with children but as a rule you will always want to supervise your children when they are handling the snake. Boas don't always get along well with other pets so you will want to keep that in mind before bringing new pets in.
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