Keep in mind that snails can climb vertical surfaces, and will attempt to escape if the container does not have a lid.
Use a 5 gallon (19 L) tank or larger so the snail has room to move around. If you have several snails or intend to take care of young snails if the adult ones reproduce, get a larger tank.
Avoid potting soil for plants, which can contain chemicals harmful to snails.
Never use cardboard ornaments for your snails, as it will grow moss and fungi, resulting in your snail’s death.
Garden snails are almost always safe to handle, but it’s a good idea to wash your hands before and after touching them to minimize the chance of harm to you or your snail. [5] X Research source If you do not want to touch the snails, wear gloves.
Some snails may eat raw meat, raw eggs, brown bread, or (soaked, but uncooked) oatmeal. Experiment to give your snails a varied diet to increase the chance that they are receiving all the nutrition they need. [8] X Research source
Salty foods could kill your snails. Avoid anything with salt crystals on it entirely. Avoid pasta, rice, and millet. These starchy foods can potentially cause blockage in the snail’s digestive system. Do not feed them to your snails. Homegrown plants may be exposed to car exhaust while growing, which could cause harm. Acidic foods such as citrus fruit, tomatoes, and kiwi fruit may or may not harm snails. Use them in small quantities along with other foods.
Have a source of calcium available in the tank at all times. Replace it whenever it runs out, but use calcium supplements with greater than 20% calcium sparingly. [11] X Research source
Don’t leave the snails untended if the container is small. Do not shut the snails in a container without air. When replacing the soil and other materials in the clean tank, follow all of the steps described under Making a Snail Home
