How to Use Heat Lamps for Pets

Many animals require a heat lamp to be happy and healthy. Reptiles require a steady output of heat their whole lives, whereas baby animals may require heat only while they are young. It is important to utilize a heat lamp correctly to avoid injury or discomfort to your pet.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Heat lamp
• Thermometer
• Animal habitat

1. Determine the amount of heat needed for your pet. For example, reptiles will require different temperatures than baby birds.

2. Choose a heat lamp that is suited to your needs. If you have an animal that will require consistent heat throughout the duration of its life, a single heat output lamp is sufficient. If you have an animal that requires less heat as it gets older, select a heating lamp which will allow you to adjust heating levels.

3. Attach the heating lamp to your animal's habitat so that it is out of reach of your animal. Most lamps will come with a clip for this, but if not, you may need to purchase a separate light stand or attachment.

4. Place a thermometer in your animal's habitat directly under the heat lamp and let it sit for 10 minutes.

5. Observe the temperature and adjust as necessary until the ideal temperature for your pet is reached.

6. Place your pet back in its habitat and observe it for a few minutes. If it seems uncomfortable or moves away from the heat, lower the temperature until it is comfortable. If your heat lamp does not have adjustable heat output, move the lamp up higher so that the heat is not as intense.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask a pet specialist what an ideal temperature setting for your animal is.
• Do not place the heat lamp too low in your animal's habitat, even if you have it on a low heat setting. This can cause the animal to burn. Never leave your pet unattended with their new heat lamp until you have determined the temperature is stable and the animal is comfortable.