Housing
Baby iguanas may be quite small, but Iggy won’t stay little for long. In fact, iguanas can reach seven feet long! Make sure you have enough space to care for your reptilian pet when he reaches his adult size. This may mean devoting an entire room to your lizard! You can start your pet out in a tank, but be prepared to upgrade as your scaled buddy grows. Whether you house your lizard in a tank or an enclosure, you’ll need to provide a suitable substrate, such as flooring or butcher paper. Iguanas also need climbing branches, food and water dishes, and a hidey-hole.
Environment
Iggy will need both UVA and UVB lighting. You’ll also need to keep your scaled friend’s habitat at a certain temperature. Iguana habitats should stay between 80 and 90°F during the daytime, and no less than 75°F at night. Your iguana will need different temperature zones, so he can move between warm and cool places at will. While purchasing the equipment needed to maintain these conditions may be a one-time expense, you may find yourself with higher energy bills.
Diet
Iguanas are vegetarians. While you can give your lizard some commercial food, you’ll need to provide him with plenty of fresh produce. Iggy will need lots of green leafy veggies, such as mustard greens and dandelion greens. He’ll also require some more colorful vegetable, like berries and squash, and small amounts of fresh fruit. Ask your vet for nutritional recommendations.
Hydration
Fresh water is very important to Iggy! You’ll need to make sure your scaled pet has plenty of clean water at all times. Iguanas also need to soak in kiddie pools or bathtubs several times a week. This can be fun, but it will take up a good amount of time.
Veterinary Care
Just like any other pet, iguanas need good health care to thrive. Ask your vet for specific advice, including possible signs of illness.
Do you have questions about iguana care? Contact us, your Simi Valley, CA animal clinic, today!