Iguanas are fascinating creatures, but they can be challenging pets to care for. If you’re thinking about getting an iguana, here are a few things you need to consider:
Cage
Iguanas need a large cage to live in. The cage should be at least twice the length of the iguana, and it should have plenty of space for the iguana to climb and bask. The cage should also have a water source and a hiding place.
Food
Iguanas are herbivores, so they eat a diet of fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens. They should also have access to fresh water at all times. It’s important to avoid feeding iguanas meat, as this can lead to health problems.
Temperature
Iguanas need a warm humid environment to stay healthy. The temperature in the cage should be between 80 and 92 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a heat lamp and heat pad to keep the cage warm and a humidifier to keep humid.
Lighting
Iguanas need exposure to UVB light to stay healthy. UVB light helps iguanas synthesize vitamin D, which is essential for bone health. You can provide UVB light by using a fluorescent lamp or a mercury vapor bulb.
Sanitation
Iguanas are susceptible to salmonella, so it’s important to keep their cage clean. The cage should be cleaned and disinfected at least once a week.
Other Considerations Before You Add an Iguana to the Household
In addition to the factors listed above, there are a few other things to consider before getting an iguana. Iguanas can live for up to 15 years, so you need to be prepared for a long-term commitment.
If you’re considering getting an iguana, be sure to do your research and talk to a veterinarian or experienced iguana owner. Iguanas can make great pets, but they’re NOT for everyone!
Iguanas do Grow!
Just because you bought your iguana’s cage to fit him does not mean, he will always fit in that cage. Some iguanas have grown to six feet long. This is especially true if the iguana has a loving habitat and environment that will more than adequately let the iguana grow. When debating the size of the iguana’s cage, a person should always keep in mind how long the iguana can grow and plan accordingly to avoid future issues.
Costly
Before getting an iguana, be sure you can take them to the vet and can pay for things they will need in order to stay healthy. Prepare yourself for all the endeavors that come with taking care of them. Reptile veterinarians are EXPENSIVE! At some point, your pet will need one for a checkup and so forth. If you are on a financial budget, an iguana as a pet is going to be hard!
Safety
Did you know that some animals take an extra amount of time to be taken care of? One of these pets happens to be the iguana. They are aggressive by nature and need plenty of care, more than the usual pets that people tend to keep such as cats or dogs, so yes, it’s important to handle them carefully.
It is also important to understand that these animals are capable of inflicting serious injury on their owners. Males tend to become quite grumpy and even aggressive during mating season or even while shedding. While some iguanas can be quite chilled in general and never once show any sign of aggression, others can get ticked off easily. If you have small children around or maybe any other pets, please consider carefully before adding an iguana into your home. It is beyond cruel to keep an animal locked up in a cage to keep others safe from it.
