How to Take Care of Iguanas

Although extremely popular as pets, iguanas are finicky creatures. They require a lot of care and need quite a bit of attention. You should never purchase an iguana as a pet unless you know exactly what will be required from you. Where they should live, how warm they should be, and how to interact with them are all things to consider before bringing a pet iguana home. Iguanas can live to be nearly 20 years old. Unfortunately, if not properly cared for, they may last only a few years. These steps give you insight on how to care for a happy iguana.

Things You'll Need

• Newspaper
• Large branches
• Large stones
• Full-spectrum spotlight

Instructions

1. Designate a room in your house for your iguana to roam. Ideally, iguanas need space at least two times their length once they are adults. An iguana can grow up to 7 feet long. Cages just don't cut it. They need space to roam. If you want to give them full reign of your home, go ahead.

2. Fill your iguana's room with climbing structures and branches. Also, place large rocks in one corner for him to bask. Climbing and basking are necessary for the emotional well-being of an iguana. You should also place newspaper all over the room for his waste.

3. Give your iguana a room that has 6 to 10 hours of complete darkness every evening. Televisions, clocks and night lights should all be turned off during this time in his designated room. Also, make sure the windows are completely shaded to block traffic lights.

4. Provide your Iguana with a full-spectrum spotlight over his basking rocks. This will give him all the UV lighting he needs and will help keep the room temperature above 80 degrees. The basking area should be kept at 95 degrees. If the spotlight does not accomplish this task, you must add more heat lamps. Keeping an iguana warm enough is imperative to his digestive system.

5. Play with your iguana. They may not look cuddly, but they need love and attention just like a dog or a cat. Talk to him and encourage him to climb on his branches. Praise him when he does something you like.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the temperature in your iguana's room twice a day. This will ensure the lights are working hard enough, without getting the room too hot.

• Do not purchase an iguana if you cannot provide her with the necessary environment she needs to thrive. Instead, purchase a less-finicky lizard.