Taking care of an animal from the other side of the world, like a reptile, has some special challenges. However, you are required by law to provide for their needs, so do lots of research before purchasing a pet reptile like a bearded dragon, royal python, corn snake, or leopard gecko. Reptiles are not like cats, dogs, birds, or other common pets. They’re covered in scales instead of hair or feathers, and their bodies are constructed differently. Therefore, they commonly need specialized treatment.
How to Care For Pet Reptiles
While snakes, bearded dragons, and crested geckos aren’t exactly the most practical pets, they can still be quite beautiful. To ensure they have a long and happy life in your care, reptiles need the same level of attention you give your dog or cat. In this article, we’ll discuss what you can do to ensure your reptile’s well-being and discuss some of the difficulties you may encounter.
Avoid Breeding Reptiles at Home
Avoid raising reptiles at home unless you have enough space for several on your property because millions of animals worldwide are put to death each year because there aren’t enough shelters for them to live in.
You should be aware that a python can lay dozens of eggs; therefore, you should have the same amount of cages or containers for each baby if you have one. They may start little, but these babies will quickly outgrow their spaces. If you want to provide your reptile pets with the best care possible, this should be your top priority.
Provide High-Quality Housing
Most reptiles don’t enjoy running about and playing as dogs and cats do. However, you should still provide them with a suitable shelter that allows them some freedom of movement. This is essential for the growth of muscles.
Unfortunately, many people who own reptiles store their snakes in long aquariums that are too short for the animals. Since snakes are slithering creatures, you may think this is fine. It’s important to remember, though, that snakes can also climb trees, so providing them with a tall cage and a number of tree branches to use as perches is the best option.
Only Serve the Best Quality Food
In terms of nutrition, every reptile is different. It is a common misconception that snakes only need food once a month. The majority of reptiles require daily feedings. Learn your pet’s proper feeding schedule, so you don’t overfeed it. Providing healthy, nutritious food is the most crucial aspect of caring for reptiles.
Due to the carnivorous nature of the majority of reptiles, you should give the snakes a consistent supply of pre-killed or thawed food. You should not use live animals in your feedings. It’s fine to do so in the wild, but reptiles should be fed pre-killed food in a home with a pet owner around.
Regular Vet Check-Ups are a Must
Maintaining regular veterinary checkups for your reptile pets ensures their health and well-being. This will make it possible to identify and treat potential health problems early on. A veterinarian that treats exotic animals is not necessarily located in the same place as the owner.
Also, a trip to the vet can be expensive, even more, expensive than the cost of most reptiles kept as pets. Therefore, if you’re not prepared to spend money on a reptile, don’t purchase one as a pet in the first place.
Read more about 6 Reasons to Get Yourself a Cat
