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My hermit crab is burrowing, ammonia smell, not molting. Is it okay?

Updated On December 4th, 2025

Hermit crab is burrowing and hasn't molted for 3 days undisturbed. There is an ammonia smell, but it is still alive. Should he be isolated?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on August 13th, 2017

Gently pick him up and check him to make sure he is still alive. If he is, place him back in the hole and cover him as he was. The molting time will vary from crab to crab. Generally, the larger the crab, the longer the time needed to molt.

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