Hermit Crab Fell Out Of Shell Not Moving
Hermit crabs are interesting creatures to have as pets. These crustaceans are generally low-maintenance and don’t require too much attention. However, there may be instances where your hermit crab is not moving, especially when it falls out of its shell. This can be a cause for concern, but there are several reasons why this might happen. In this article, we’ll explore the different possible reasons why your hermit crab fell out of its shell and what you should do about it.
Why Did Your Hermit Crab Fall Out of Its Shell?
Hermit crabs are known to switch shells from time to time, especially as they grow bigger. Sometimes, they may even try to switch shells that are too small for them, causing them to fall out. Another reason why your hermit crab might fall out of its shell is due to stress. This can happen if they’re in an environment that’s too hot, too cold, or too dry. Additionally, if their current shell is too dirty, they might try to find a different one, causing them to fall out.
Another possible explanation is that your hermit crab is molting. During this process, hermit crabs shed their exoskeleton and grow a new one. They need to be out of their shells to do this properly, so it’s not uncommon for them to fall out of their shells during this time. It’s important to note that if your hermit crab is molting, you should not disturb it. It’s a delicate process that can be fatal if interrupted.
What to Do If Your Hermit Crab Falls Out of Its Shell?
If you notice that your hermit crab has fallen out of its shell, there are a few things that you can do to help it. The first thing you should do is to make sure that it’s still alive. You can do this by gently tapping on its shell or legs. If it responds, then it’s still alive.
Next, you should check if there are any injuries. If your hermit crab fell from a high place, it could have sustained injuries. Check for any cracks or injuries on its legs, claws, or antennas. If you notice any injuries, take your hermit crab to a veterinarian that specializes in exotic pets as soon as possible.
After checking for any injuries, you should make sure that the environment is suitable for your hermit crab. Check if the temperature, humidity, and substrate are appropriate for your pet. Hermit crabs require a warm, humid environment with a substrate that is at least three inches deep.
How to Help Your Hermit Crab Find a New Shell?
If your hermit crab fell out of its shell because it’s too small or too dirty, you can help it find a new one. Provide your hermit crab with a few different shells that are slightly larger than its current one. You can also clean its current shell to make it more attractive to your pet.
Place the shells in the tank and observe your hermit crab’s behavior. It might take a while for it to find a suitable shell, so don’t worry if it takes some time. Once it finds a new shell, it will move into it on its own.
Conclusion
If your hermit crab falls out of its shell, it’s not necessarily a cause for panic. There are several reasons why your pet might fall out of its shell, and there are a few things that you can do to help it. Make sure that your hermit crab is alive and does not have any injuries. Check if the environment is suitable for your pet and provide it with new shells if needed. Remember, if you’re unsure what to do, consult a veterinarian that specializes in exotic pets.
