7 Things to Consider Before Adopting a Reptile

Are you considering adopting a reptile? Our scaled friends are very beautiful and fascinating, and can make great animal companions. There are some definite benefits to getting a reptile: they’re quiet, don’t need to be trained, don’t cause a lot of odors, and won’t chew up your shoes or scratch your couch. However, reptiles aren’t for everyone, so it’s important to think carefully before adopting one. In this article from Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, a local vet lists some things to consider before getting a reptile.

Reptiles aren’t the most expensive pets, but there are some ongoing, associated costs of caring for them. Your little buddy will need a habitat, substrate, food, and veterinary care. Your power bill may go up a bit as well, as the equipment used to maintain proper environmental conditions does use electricity.

Backup power is another thing to consider. If you lose power in winter, you’ll need a small generator or another source of backup power for your pet’s tank to maintain the proper temperature, light, and humidity. Otherwise, your reptilian buddy could get quite sick!

Different types of reptiles require different types of food. Iguanas, for instance, are vegetarians. However, many reptiles eat things like bugs and mice. Needless to say, a reptile may not be the best option for someone who is super squeamish, or hates creepy-crawlies.

Another thing that is important to consider is pet sitters. Your friends or family may not mind stopping over to feed your cat when you leave town, but tossing live bugs into a reptile tank may be a bit much for them.

Adopting a pet is a lifetime commitment. Some reptiles have quite long lifespans, and can live 20 years or more!

Reptiles need regular veterinary care to stay happy and healthy. It’s very important to find a good vet who treats reptiles.

While many of the reptiles that are popular as pets are tame, and don’t mind being held, they usually aren’t exactly affectionate. If you want a pet that will cuddle up with you, a reptile may not be your best bet.

Here at Arapahoe Animal Hospital, your Boulder, CO vet, serving Louisville and surrounding areas, we are proud to offer excellent veterinary care for reptiles. Please contact us anytime!