Jumping Spider Visual Feeding Guide
Feeding a jumping spider does not have to follow a strict schedule. One of the easiest ways to tell when your spood may be ready for another meal is by looking at their abdomen. A thinner abdomen can mean it is time to offer food, while a very round abdomen usually means they can wait a little longer.
Keep in mind that adult males naturally have slimmer abdomens than females and younger spiders, so their healthy body shape may look different.
How Often Should I Feed My Jumping Spider?
Instead of feeding on a set number of days, check your spider’s abdomen and behavior.
Growing slings and juveniles usually eat more often because they are actively growing. Adults may eat less frequently, especially mature males.
If your spider still looks nice and full after their last meal, there is usually no need to offer another feeder yet.
Choosing the Right Feeder
Choose prey that is appropriate for the size of your spider. Smaller spiders need smaller feeders, while larger juveniles and adults can safely handle larger prey.
Common feeders include:
Fruit flies for slings and small juveniles
Bottle flies
Mealworms
Small dubia roaches
Small crickets
When in doubt, choose the smaller feeder.
What If My Spider Does Not Eat?
It is completely normal for a jumping spider to refuse food sometimes.
They may not be hungry, they may still be settling into a new home, or they could be preparing to molt.
If your spider is hiding in a thick hammock and refusing food, remove the feeder and give them space.
Don't Leave Feeders Unattended
Remove uneaten feeders, especially crickets, mealworms, and roaches.
Never leave potentially harmful prey inside with a spider that is molting or in premolt.
Get to Know Your Spood
The feeding guide is meant to be a helpful visual, not a strict rule.
Every spider is a little different. As you get to know yours, you will start recognizing what their normal healthy abdomen looks like and when they are ready for their next meal.
When in doubt, watch the spood, not the calendar. 🕷️
This guide is intended as general feeding information. Individual needs can vary depending on species, age, sex, size, and life stage.