Snakes are a lot less work than cats and dogs. I'm sure anybody who loves their pets doesn't consider it work anyway. If I go on vacation, I can leave my snakes for a week without worrying about them because they don't have to be fed every day. My snakes are used to warm, humid climate. I have a humidifier in my room and a basking lamp for them. That's all they need. Also, as far as health issues go, they don't have near the maintenance of other animals. I don't have to get them spayed or neutered or declawed or get them shots, etc.

I had two cats that I loved dearly but they were very expensive to take care of initially. I am much more satisfied with my snakes because they are less upkeep. I don't mind feeding them mice. You can get pre-killed frozen mice and just thaw them out when it is time to feed the snake. I know that sounds gross but that way, the snake does not get any scratches or bites from the mice.

I happen to not like rodents very much so I have no problem feeding my snakes.