The 10 Best Cages For Pet Snakes

Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by: Mike Corcoran, DVM, DABVP (R/A), CertAqV
Reptiles & Amphibians Snakes May 12, 2022
Written by | Updated Nov 11, 2024
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The 10 Best Cages For Pet Snakes

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best snake cages

Snakes make fascinating pets because they are so different from traditional pets like cats and dogs. Not only are they unique in their appearance and behavior, but they also have very different requirements for care. Housing and dietary needs vary from one species to another, but most pet snakes require a cage that will retain heat and humidity while also providing ample space for movement.

In this article, we’ll talk about the basics of caring for pet snakes and provide some tips for choosing the best snake cage. You’ll also see our top 10 picks for the best snake cage.

At a Glance: Best Cages For Snakes To Buy

We highly recommend looking at the comparison table we have below where we highlighted the features of each product. You’ll also find more detailed information about each product later in the article.

Compare Best Cages For Snakes

Overall Best
Exo Terra Glass Terrarium Kit, for Reptiles and Amphibians

1. Exo Terra Glass Terrarium Kit, for Reptiles and Amphibians

Runner Up
Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium, Extra-Long

2. Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium, Extra-Long

Best Naturalistic Terrarium
Zoo Med Laboratories SZMNT2 Naturalistic Terrarium

3. Zoo Med Laboratories SZMNT2 Naturalistic Terrarium

REPTI ZOO Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door

4. REPTI ZOO Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door

Exo Terra Glass Natural Terrarium Kit

5. Exo Terra Glass Natural Terrarium Kit

Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

6. Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

REPTIZOO Mini Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank

7. REPTIZOO Mini Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank

Exo Terra Outback Terrarium

8. Exo Terra Outback Terrarium

Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit with Light and Heat

9. Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit with Light and Heat

Tetrafauna Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Aquarium Kit

10. Tetrafauna Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Aquarium Kit

Materials
Glass, screen
Materials
Glass
Materials
Glass
Materials
Glass
Materials
Glass
Materials
Glass, wire mesh
Materials
Glass, screen
Materials
Glass
Materials
Glass, mesh
Materials
Tank kit
Size
12x12x12
Size
48x24x24 inches
Size
12x12x18 inches
Size
36x18x18 inches
Size
24x18x12 inches
Size
50 x 20 x 12 inches
Size
8x8x12 inches
Size
24x18x12 inches
Size
10 gallons
Size
20 gallons
Features
Hinged doors, front ventilation
Features
Sliding doors, key-lock security
Features
Locking door, front/side ventilation
Features
Hinged doors, screen top
Features
Dual doors, front window ventilation
Features
Waterproof base, hinged doors, key entry
Features
Screen top, lift and pull top
Features
Hinged doors, front ventilation
Features
Includes lighting
Features
Decorative ReptoFilter, Basking Platform, Dome Lamps

What To Look For In Cages For Snakes?

When it comes to choosing a snake cage, you need to take the requirements of the particular species of snake you plan to keep. This will help you determine the proper size for your snake cage and the dimensions. You’ll also need to consider factors like easy access for feeding and cleaning as well as ventilation to provide your snake with plenty of fresh air.

Here are some important things to look for in snake cages:

  • Appropriate size. Again, sizing depends on the species you plan to keep but, as a general rule, juvenile snakes need a cage at least 10 to 20 gallons in size. Larger snakes need bigger cages. The longest side of the cage should be at least as long as the snake housed in the cage. Snakes must be able to stretch to their full length.
  • Retains heat/humidity. Most snakes require a heated tank, so you’ll need to choose a tank that retains heat well. Humidity is also a factor for some snakes, particularly tropical species. With some screen-topped cages, you may need to partially block the screen with plexiglass to balance ventilation and the ability to retain humidity.
  • Easy to access. Look for a cage that is easy to access for cleaning and feeding but not easy for your snake to escape from. Locking doors are always a good thing.
  • Well ventilated. Your snake requires a hot, often humid environment, but still needs fresh air to breathe. Make sure your snake cage provides ventilation without a risk for escape.

Our Top Picks For The Best Cages For Snakes

Now that you have a better idea what to look for in a snake cage, it’s time to start shopping! Keep reading to see our top 10 picks for the best snake cages.

Overall Best
1.

Exo Terra Glass Terrarium Kit, for Reptiles and Amphibians

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass, screen
  • Size: 12x12x12
  • Features: Hinged doors, front ventilation
Pros
  • Durable all-glass construction
  • Retains heat with plenty of ventilation
  • Double hinged doors for easy access
Cons
  • May not be large enough for very large species
  • Some products were damaged on delivery
If you’re looking for a moderately sized terrarium for your snake, this Exo Terra All-Glass Terrarium might be a good choice. It measures 18x18x24 inches, so it has additional vertical space to include branches for your snake to climb as well as plenty of floor space.

It features two hinged doors with escape-proof locks that ensure easy access without the risk of escape. Plus, it is all-glass except for the mesh top, so it retains heat well but is still properly ventilated.
Runner Up
2.

Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass, wire mesh
  • Size: 50 x 20 x 12 inches
  • Features: Waterproof base, hinged doors, key entry
Pros
  • High-quality glass construction
  • Ample space for growth and movement
  • Sliding front doors for easy access
Cons
  • Significantly more expensive than other models
For a large terrarium, consider this Carolina Custom Cages 48x18x18 inch terrarium. It features a high-quality all-glass construction with a mesh top for ventilation.

It has large sliding doors on the front for easy access as well as a 4-inch waterproof base. This cage comes in a variety of different sizes and they all feature a key-lock security system to prevent escape.
Best Naturalistic Terrarium
3.

Zoo Med Laboratories SZMNT2 Naturalistic Terrarium

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass
  • Size: 12x12x18 inches
  • Features: Locking door, front/side ventilation
Pros
  • Perfect size for a juvenile tree-dwelling snake
  • Lockable front door to prevent escape
  • Front and size mesh ventilation
Cons
  • May not be large enough for bigger snake species
  • Some products arrived damaged
If you want something a little more affordable than the previous option but with similar features, consider the Zoo Med Medium Naturalistic Terrarium. This terrarium comes in three different sizes and the design is taller than it is wide, so you can add vertical decorations for your snake to climb.

It has a locking front door with front and top ventilation to promote natural air flow. It also has 6 power cord and airline tubing slots so you can easily install tank equipment.
4.

REPTI ZOO Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank Double Hinge Door

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass
  • Size: 36x18x18 inches
  • Features: Hinged doors, screen top
Pros
  • High-quality glass construction
  • Retains heat and humidity very well
  • Top ventilation for proper air flow
Cons
  • Somewhat pricey compared to other models
  • Assembly instructions could be better
Another excellent option in slightly larger terrariums for snakes is the Repti Zoo 36x18x18 Inch Glass Terrarium. This terrarium features a durable all-glass construction with a mesh top for ventilation. It also has a raised bottom to accommodate under-tank heaters. Like other terrariums, it has two large front doors that can be opened separately to prevent escape.
5.

Exo Terra Glass Natural Terrarium Kit

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass
  • Size: 24x18x12 inches
  • Features: Dual doors, front window ventilation
Pros
  • Surprisingly affordable for the size
  • All-glass construction with mesh top
  • Front doors open separately for security
Cons
  • Some shipments arrived damaged
  • May not be big enough for very large species
A larger model of a previously reviewed terrarium, the Exo Terra 24x18x18 Inch All-Glass Terrarium is a great choice of you’re looking for a tank that has more horizontal than vertical space.

It still features the same hinged front doors that can be opened separately for security as well as a mesh top for ventilation. This model also has closable inlets for wires and tubing with a waterproof base.
6.

Carolina Custom Cages Terrarium, Extra-Long

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass
  • Size: 48x24x24 inches
  • Features: Sliding doors, key-lock security
Pros
  • High-quality all-glass construction
  • Dual hinged front doors for easy access
  • Key-lock doors for security
Cons
  • Significantly more expensive than some models
Another excellent option in all-glass aquariums is this Carolina Custom Cages terrarium measuring 48x24x24 inches. It features dual hinged front doors with key-lock security as well as a 4-inch waterproof base. It allows for easy access but prevents your snake from escaping.
7.

REPTIZOO Mini Reptile Glass Terrarium Tank

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass, screen
  • Size: 8x8x12 inches
  • Features: Screen top, lift and pull top
Pros
  • Highly affordable with decent quality
  • All-glass construction with mesh top
  • Lift-and-pull door is easy to use
Cons
  • Small size, only ideal for very small tree-dwelling snakes
  • Only allows for top access
If you’re looking for a small terrarium for a baby snake, this all-glass tank from Repti Zoo could be a good choice. It is affordably priced under $50 and features an all-glass construction with a mesh top. The only downsides are that it is not be big enough for adult snakes and it only has top access.
8.

Exo Terra Outback Terrarium

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass
  • Size: 24x18x12 inches
  • Features: Hinged doors, front ventilation
Pros
  • Dual hinged doors for escape-proof access
  • Stainless steel mesh cover for ventilation
  • Limited edition 3D rock background
Cons
  • May not be big enough for very large snakes
The perfect size for a juvenile snake, the Exo Terra Outback 20-Gallon Aquarium features dual hinged front doors with a front ventilation panel. It also comes with a rugged 3D rock background and a stainless mesh cover. This terrarium has several escape-proof features and is affordably priced for the size of the terrarium and the additional features.
9.

Zilla Desert Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit with Light and Heat

Product Info

  • Materials: Glass, mesh
  • Size: 10 gallons
  • Features: Includes lighting
Pros
  • Affordable price that includes equipment
  • Comes with two domed light fixtures
  • All-glass construction retains heat well
Cons
  • Light fixtures could be of higher quality
  • Not big enough for very adult snakes
  • The carpet substrate is not appropriate for most snakes
For a kit that includes all the basics you need to get started with your pet snake, consider this Zilla Reptile Starter Kit. It comes in a desert and a tropical kit, so choose the one that is most appropriate for the type of snake you plan to keep. The kit includes a 10-gallon glass aquarium with a mesh top as well as two reflective dome lights fixtures and lights.
10.

Tetrafauna Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Aquarium Kit

Product Info

  • Materials: Tank kit
  • Size: 20 gallons
  • Features: Decorative ReptoFilter, Basking Platform, Dome Lamps
Pros
  • Comes with heating elements and bulbs
  • All-glass construction with mesh top
  • Properly sized for small and juvenile snakes
Cons
  • May not be big enough for large species to grow into
  • Lighting equipment could be of higher quality
  • Most of the furnishings included are not designed for snakes and the filtration is not needed for most snakes
If you’re not quite sure where to start in buying a snake cage, you may want to consider a kit like this Tetra Deluxe Aquatic Turtle Kit. It is nothing fancy, but it is a 20-gallon tank with a mesh top that comes with two dome light fixtures. It would be a great choice for small snakes, though you may need to get a larger tank as your snake grows.

Tips For Maintaining A Snake Cage

Your pet snake will spend the majority of its life in its cage, so it is important to choose a size that your snake can grow into and live in comfortably. The dimensions of the cage are just as important as the size, so keep that in mind. You’ll also need to add certain pieces of equipment as well as decorations and accessories to create the ultimate captive environment for your snake.

Here Are Some Simple Tips For Maintaining A Snake Cage:

  • Choose a cage that is large enough for your snake at its adult size – a 20-gallon aquarium is usually sufficient for smaller species. Larger species will need a cage that has a 48 inch or longer side.
  • Make sure the tank is properly ventilated but be careful that the ventilation openings are not large enough that your snake can fit through them.
  • Equip your tank with under-tank heaters and/or overheat heat lamps to achieve and maintain the proper temperature for your pet snake.
  • Keep your day lights on for 10 to 12 hours, making sure to include a light source that provides low-level UVA and UVB rays. Although snakes absorb vitamin D through their food, some studies suggest they still benefit from UVB exposure. Reference: Ancierno MJ, Mitchell MA, Zachariah TT, et al. Effects of ultraviolet radiation on plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 concentrations in corn snakes (Elaphe guttata). Am J Vet Res 2008;69(2):294-7.
  • Make sure the humidity in your tank stays high enough for your snake – it helps with shedding as well as hydration.
  • Give your snake somewhere to hide in the cage – this is important for when the snake wants to take a nap or cool off after spending time under the heat lamp.

Now that you have a better idea of your snake’s housing requirements, you’re ready to start shopping around for the best snake cage! If you’re still not sure what you need, do some additional research on the type of snake you plan to keep.

Final Remarks

Different species of snakes have different care requirements, so make sure you choose a cage appropriate for the snake you have. Take what you’ve learned here and put it into action when choosing your cage, pairing this information with additional research on your chosen species. If you’re still not sure where to start in looking for a snake cage, try out one of the top 10 best snake cages we’ve reviewed above. Good luck!

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Kate Barrington is avid pet lover and adoring owner of three cats and one dog, her love for animals has led her to a successful career as a freelance writer specializing in pet care and nutrition. She has been writing about pet care and pet products since 2010
2 Comments
  1. Robert

    None of these are truly good for snakes wire tops and they can't hold heat

    • Kate Barrington

      Hey Robert, we appreciate the comment! It's definitely true that holding in heat is important, but so is ventilation. Many of the cages we've chosen do have wire tops, but the user will likely have a heat lamp on top. Wire tops can also be covered or replaced with glass if needed (such as for species that require higher humidity levels), as long as there are still vents for air.

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