How Often Should You Feed a Jumping Spider?
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One of the most common questions new owners ask is how often should you feed a jumping spider? The answer depends on your spider's age, size, activity level and even the time of year.
Unlike dogs or cats, jumping spiders don't need feeding on a strict daily schedule. Instead, it's best to monitor their abdomen size and behaviour to decide when they're ready for another meal.
In this guide, we'll explain exactly how often to feed slings, juveniles and adult jumping spiders, as well as the signs that your spider is hungry or has had enough.
Feed Based on Abdomen Size, Not Just the Calendar
The easiest way to judge when your spider needs feeding is by looking at its abdomen.
- Small or wrinkled abdomen: Feed soon.
- Rounded abdomen: Ideal condition.
- Very large, swollen abdomen: Wait before feeding again.
A healthy abdomen should look plump but not stretched tight. If your spider still has a full abdomen a few days after eating, there's no need to offer more food yet.
Feeding Schedule for Slings
Slings are baby jumping spiders that are growing rapidly, so they need food more often.
Recommended feeding:
- Every 1–2 days
- Offer appropriately sized fruit flies or other tiny prey
- Remove uneaten food after 24 hours
Because slings moult frequently, don't worry if they refuse food for a short period before shedding.
Feeding Schedule for Juveniles
Juvenile jumping spiders have a healthy appetite but don't need feeding quite as often.
Recommended feeding:
- Every 2–4 days
- Green bottle flies, small crickets or similar sized prey
- Adjust based on abdomen size
This stage is where many owners accidentally overfeed. It's perfectly normal for a juvenile to skip a meal if it still has plenty of energy reserves.
Feeding Schedule for Adult Jumping Spiders
Adult spiders have finished growing, so they generally require less food.
Recommended feeding:
- Every 4–7 days
- One suitably sized insect per feed
- Monitor abdomen condition rather than sticking rigidly to a timetable
Females preparing to produce eggs may eat more frequently, while mature males often eat less once they begin searching for a mate.
Signs Your Jumping Spider is Hungry
Your spider will often tell you when it's ready to eat.
Common signs include:
- Smaller abdomen
- Increased activity around the enclosure
- Watching moving insects closely
- Fast hunting response when prey is introduced
- Exploring instead of resting
Healthy jumping spiders are enthusiastic hunters, so a hungry spider usually reacts quickly to live prey.
Signs Your Spider Has Been Overfed
Although it's difficult to seriously overfeed a jumping spider, feeding too often can leave them carrying unnecessary weight.
Signs include:
- Very large, rounded abdomen
- Less interest in hunting
- Reduced movement
- Ignoring offered prey
If this happens, simply wait a few more days before offering another meal.
Why Has My Jumping Spider Stopped Eating?
Don't panic if your spider suddenly refuses food.
Common reasons include:
They're About to Moult
Most jumping spiders stop eating several days before moulting. They may hide away in a silk hammock until the process is complete.
Never disturb or handle a spider during this time.
The Temperature Is Too Low
Jumping spiders become less active when they're cold, which also reduces their appetite.
Most pet species thrive between 22–28°C.
They're Simply Not Hungry
A healthy spider with a full abdomen may happily refuse food for several days.
This is completely normal.
Seasonal Appetite Changes
Even indoor spiders can change their feeding habits throughout the year.
Spring & Summer
- More active
- Faster growth
- Increased appetite
- More frequent moulting
Autumn & Winter
- Less active
- Slower metabolism
- May eat less often
- Longer periods between meals
As long as your spider remains healthy and maintains a good abdomen size, these changes are usually nothing to worry about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you feed a jumping spider every day?
Young slings may eat daily, but juveniles and adults usually don't need food that often. Feeding based on abdomen size is more reliable than following a strict schedule.
Can a jumping spider overeat?
Jumping spiders usually stop hunting once they're full, but owners can still offer food too frequently. Aim for a healthy, rounded abdomen rather than a swollen one.
How long can a jumping spider go without food?
Healthy adults can often go one to two weeks without eating, although this shouldn't become a regular routine. Always ensure fresh water droplets are available.
Should I remove uneaten insects?
Yes. Remove live prey after around 24 hours if it hasn't been eaten, particularly during moulting, as insects can stress or even injure a vulnerable spider.
Final Thoughts
Learning how often to feed a jumping spider is one of the most important parts of successful spider care. While feeding schedules provide a useful guideline, your spider's abdomen and behaviour are the best indicators of when it's time for another meal.
Every spider is slightly different, so don't worry if yours eats a little more or less than average. By observing their body condition and adjusting accordingly, you'll help keep your jumping spider healthy, active and ready to thrive.