What to look for when buying an iguana as a pet?

What to look for when buying an iguana as a pet?

Don’t be fooled by a pet store selling you a small iguana and claiming it will stay that size. These animals grow very quickly. Look for an iguana that is active with clear eyes, healthy skin, and normal feces. Red flags include a low body weight, mucus around the animal’s nose or mouth, bumps or sores on its skin, and lethargy.

Can a baby iguana stay small for a long time?

Don’t be fooled by a pet store selling you a small iguana and telling you it will stay that size. While some stores sell baby iguanas, they will grow large very quickly. Consult with a reputable pet store that fully informs you of the commitment you are making with a pet iguana.

What should I do if my Iguana gets out of the cage?

When out of their cage, some iguanas might like climbing on their owner. They do have sharp claws, so wear protective clothing if your pet iguana likes this activity. Iguanas are never domesticated animals, will not often recognize their owners, and will try to escape if they are out of their cages.

What should the temperature be in an iguana enclosure?

Wait for everything to dry thoroughly before reassembling the enclosure. The iguana is a tropical animal. It wants to bask at 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and its habitat shouldn’t drop below 75 degrees Fahrenheit. In fact, the iguana needs a temperature around 85 degrees Fahrenheit to properly digest its food.

Is it a good idea to have an iguana as a pet?

If you an experienced lizard keeper with good knowledge on what it is like to own a pet lizard, an iguana may be the right pet for you. First time pet iguanas 90% of the time is a bad idea, the size, power, space and attention they need is overwhelming for new owners.

Don’t be fooled by a pet store selling you a small iguana and telling you it will stay that size. While some stores sell baby iguanas, they will grow large very quickly. Consult with a reputable pet store that fully informs you of the commitment you are making with a pet iguana.

When out of their cage, some iguanas might like climbing on their owner. They do have sharp claws, so wear protective clothing if your pet iguana likes this activity. Iguanas are never domesticated animals, will not often recognize their owners, and will try to escape if they are out of their cages.

What are the red flags for an iguana as a pet?

Red flags include a low body weight, mucus around the animal’s nose or mouth, bumps or sores on its skin, and lethargy. Finally, check your local laws or consult with an exotic animal veterinarian to confirm the legality of owning a pet iguana in your area. You also should make sure there’s a vet near you who accepts iguanas as patients.