Reptile Care

The common reptiles that people keep as pets are snakes and lizards. Before you choose such a pet you should do some basic research to learn about its natural habitat so you can meet its needs. If you have a large reptile, you will need a large cage and one that has a cover so the pet cannot get out on its own. Small reptiles can live in an average size terrarium. You should have some features of the natural environment in the cage, such as a hot rock if you have an iguana. The cage you choose should also be moisture proof, well-ventilated and well-lit and away from areas that could cause drafts, such as open windows and doors.

Reptiles need heated cages. This means that the cage should have some source of heat, such as a specially designed cage with a built-in heater. You can also place the cage near the heater in the room or include a hot rock in the cage that will provide the source of heat. The reptiles usually spend their time on top of this rock. Cover the floor of the cage with special carpeting designed for reptiles. They will not be rough on your pet’s skin and are easy to remove for washing. You can also use gravel, but you should make sure it is washed and disinfected before you put it in the cage.

Reptiles need dishes for their food and water. These should be washed on a daily basis. When you clean the cage, be careful not to use household cleaners that contain phenol because it will be harmful to your pet. Cleaners with an alcohol or chlorine base are better to use. If you use an ordinary log or sand from the beach in the cage, you do have to make sure it is sterile. You can wash it and bleach it or bake it in an oven at about 150º for a few hours. Tree limbs should be varnished and completely dry.

The food you give your reptilian pet depends on the type of reptile it is. Some, like iguanas, are herbivores, which means they eat plants, but even here you have to be careful. Some retiles tolerate certain plants while others do not. There are carnivorous reptiles that eat whole prey, such as mice and rats. This is the main diet of snakes. You do need to feed your pet once a day. Give them five minutes to eat the food and then remove what is left.

When you handle a reptile you need to have your hands moist. Handling them with dry hands can damage their skin. You should also take care that they don’t get cold.