Hello!

[Hayley]

Hi, I'm interested in tarantulas and have a couple of questions, particularly if there are any other Renoites on these boards.
So, I don't have a tarantula, but I'm leaning towards getting one. From what I've read they're cool, fairly low maintenance, interesting pets that are content just being there. Am I right from what I've read?
My questions are this- first off I have 3 cats. Obviously I'm not planning on introducing them, but I'm worried if my cat tries to knock over the tank, are they poisonous to cats? I know humans they just cause nasty bee-sting like bites, but I don't know if I'd be comfortable having something potentially toxic to my other pets. Any tips for particularly curious cats so both may coexhist quietly?
This might be a stupid question, but since they're labeled as exotic, are they legal in CA? I'm planning on moving there in the next year or so and need to know.
Lastly, any tips for good variety spiders in Reno? After reading a lot I want a greenbottle blue. They're so pretty! And, supposedly, a good beginner tarantula. Thanks for your help!

 

[Josh]

Hello Hayley and welcome aboard! You will definitely want to keep the cats and T separate! Your tarantula could become injured if it fell from a height not to mention the altercation that would happen if the cats got ahold of him!
I'm not sure about legality. I think you'll be in the clear with the popular species. Someone else may correct me on that though...

 

[laurarfl]

I have a menagerie of pets. My cat is older now and not so interested in the T. I have to keep them high enough that the ferrets don't get involved though. You can keep them in the same house, just keep the T's in a room that the cat doesn't frequent, keep the enclosure secure and backed into a corner rather than on a ledge (perhaps in the corner of bookshelf, etc).

You can look up the regs at the CA wildlife dept's web site. I know CA has some tight laws concerning various animals.

 

[Hayley]

Thanks Laurarfl, those are good tips!

 

[Brina916]

I know CA has some tight laws concerning various animals.

Most of which are LAME!

 

[BigOtto]

There are several breeders and sellers in California. Paul Becker at PetCenterUSA.net is in California. You can find his contact info on his site if you want a concrete answer.

 

[Josh]

Most of which are LAME!

HAHAHAH -- agreed!

 

[Donk]

Legallity of keeping T`s and some species old/new world should be disclosed by the shop or seller, if they dont know and are still willing to sell to you i would avoid them.