Pet Frog Care Guide

Terrarium & humidity

• Use a vertical terrarium at least 45 x 45 x 60 cm (18 x 18 x 24 in) for one or two adults, since tree frogs climb more than they walk
• Maintain humidity around 50–70%, raised briefly during misting rather than kept saturated constantly
• Mist the enclosure once or twice daily to maintain humidity and provide drinking water on leaves
• Include sturdy branches, cork bark, and broad leaves for climbing and resting
• Use a dechlorinated water dish large enough for the frog to soak in
• Keep daytime temperatures around 24–28°C (75–82°F), with a slight nighttime drop

Diet & feeding

• Feed appropriately sized live insects such as crickets or roaches, dusted with calcium powder most feedings
• Feed juveniles daily and adults 2–3 times a week, adjusting to body condition
• Use a vitamin/mineral supplement with D3 regularly, especially if UVB lighting isn't provided
• Remove uneaten insects from the enclosure, since they can stress or nip at the frog overnight
• Avoid feeding insects caught outdoors, which may carry pesticides or parasites

Handling

• Keep handling to a minimum — frog skin is highly permeable and absorbs oils, lotions, and residues from human hands
• Wash and thoroughly rinse hands before any handling, avoiding soap residue
• Wet hands first or use gloves to avoid stripping the frog's protective mucus layer
• Handle over a soft, enclosed surface in case the frog jumps
• Limit handling sessions to brief, occasional interactions rather than routine play

UVB & lighting

• Provide low-to-moderate UVB lighting on a 10–12 hour cycle — while nocturnal frogs need less than baskers, many keepers report improved health with some UVB exposure
• Position UVB bulbs so the frog has both exposed and shaded areas to self-regulate
• Replace UVB bulbs on the manufacturer's recommended schedule, since UV output drops before visible light does
• Supplement diet with vitamin D3 if UVB is not provided

Common problems

• Red-leg syndrome (reddened skin on the legs/belly) signals a bacterial infection and needs prompt vet care
• Excess weight or a swollen appearance often comes from overfeeding fatty feeder insects
• Lethargy or refusal to eat for an extended period can indicate stress, poor water quality, or illness
• Skin residue or chemical exposure from unwashed hands or unfiltered tap water can cause serious harm

Frequently asked questions