Should I Leave on the Heat Lamp for My Iguana?

Iguanas are popular pets and thrive in captivity with proper care.

Heat Lamps Are Essential Heating Elements

Heat lamps provide natural overhead heat for iguanas who will readily bask in its warmth. A heat lamps should remain on if it is the only source of heat and the ambient temperature of the enclosure drops below 65 degrees Fahrenheit at night, according to Animal Hospitals USA.

Ambient Home Temperature Has to be Measured

Non-ceramic heat lamps use incandescent light bulbs. Iguanas are highly light sensitive and require 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of dark to maintain their health. Keeping a heat lamp on for extended period of time causes stress in iguanas and increases their vulnerability to disease, according to the Green Iguana Society.

Bottom Line

According to veterinarian Holly Nash of Pet Education, heat lamps using incandescent bulbs should be turned off at night to maintain the proper light cycles iguanas require.

References

• Animal Hospitals USA: Iguana Care
• Smithsonian Marine Station at Fort Pierce: Green Iguana
• Green Iguana Society: Heat, Lighting & Humidity
• Pet Education: Green Iguana Basics, Diet, Housing, and Cleaning