HCA: Hermit Crab Association

scarlet wrote:In a few days I have to get my house sprayed for roaches and I have 8 hermit crabs and I don’t know if I should take them to my boyfriends house while they spray and for a few days until everything has settled and no longer in the air. Or should I leave them here I don’t know if the chemicals will hurt them. Please help!

alyxjame wrote: ↑

Fri Dec 13, 2024 3:17 pm

It’s definitely wise to be cautious when using pest control treatments around hermit crabs, as they are sensitive to chemicals and fumes. Most pest control chemicals, especially those used to treat for roaches, can be harmful to your crabs. The chemicals might linger in the air or on surfaces for a while, and hermit crabs breathe through their gills, which could cause respiratory issues if exposed.

Here are some suggestions:

Move Them Temporarily: It’s safest to take your hermit crabs to your boyfriend’s house while the treatment is being applied and for a few days afterward. This will give the chemicals time to settle and dissipate. Make sure to keep them in a well-ventilated space where they won’t be exposed to any lingering fumes.

Keep Their Habitat Safe: If moving them isn’t an option, you could also try to seal their enclosure (if possible) with plastic to prevent exposure to the spray, but moving them out of the treated area is the safest option.

Ventilate the Space: After the treatment, make sure the area is well-ventilated. Once the chemicals have settled, you could place your hermit crabs back in their enclosure, but it’s better to be cautious for a few days.

Bottom line: Moving them is the safer choice, and it will help ensure their health and well-being. Let the pest control company know about your concerns they might also provide specific advice on how long to wait before reintroducing your pets to the treated area.

Stay safe and good luck with your crabs!