So You Want a Pet Iguana? What to Know Before You Bring One Home
Thinking about bringing home a pet iguana? You're not alone. With their prehistoric looks, calm expressions, and reputation as “cool” exotic pets, iguanas attract a lot of interest from reptile lovers and curious first-time owners. But before you make the leap, it's important to understand what iguana ownership really entails.
Spoiler alert: it's not as simple as buying a lizard and tossing it in a tank.
Iguanas Aren’t Easy Pets
At first glance, iguanas might seem like low-maintenance pets. They don't bark, don’t need to be walked, and won't chew your shoes. But don’t be fooled — iguanas are among the most demanding reptiles you can own.
They can live 10 to 20 years with proper care, and adult green iguanas can reach 2 to 3 feet in length. That cute baby iguana you see at the pet store? It’s going to grow — fast.
Housing: More Like Building a Room Than Buying a Tank
Iguanas need a very large, secure, and climate-controlled environment. Standard reptile tanks quickly become too small. Most adult iguanas require a custom-built enclosure or an entire room outfitted with:
Proper heating (temperatures between 85°F–95°F)
High humidity (60%–80%)
UVB lighting (essential for calcium metabolism and bone health)
Without these conditions, iguanas can become stressed, ill, or even die prematurely.
Diet: 100% Herbivore, 100% Serious
Despite what some outdated care sheets say, iguanas are strict herbivores. Their diet should consist of:
Fresh leafy greens (collard, mustard, dandelion)
Vegetables (squash, bell peppers)
Occasional fruits (berries, mango)
Feeding them animal protein (like insects, dog food, or meat) can lead to severe kidney damage. You’ll also need to ensure proper calcium intake and avoid foods high in oxalates (like spinach) that block nutrient absorption.
Handling: Not Always a Lap Lizard
Iguanas can learn to tolerate — and sometimes even enjoy — human interaction, but it takes time, patience, and consistency.
They are territorial, especially during mating season, and may lash out with tail whips, claws, or bites if they feel threatened. It’s essential to socialize them early and respect their boundaries.
Also, they’re strong. A fully grown male can pack a punch if provoked, and their claws can do damage even when they're just climbing on you.
Vet Care: Not Optional
Like any pet, iguanas need access to veterinary care. Not all vets handle reptiles, so you'll need to find an experienced exotic animal vet before bringing one home.
Common health issues include:
Metabolic Bone Disease (from poor lighting or diet)
Mouth rot (infection from poor enclosure hygiene)
Parasites and respiratory infections
An annual checkup and a willingness to seek care if something goes wrong are part of responsible ownership.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Before adopting, check local laws and regulations — some areas restrict or ban iguana ownership due to environmental risks or invasive species concerns.
Also, consider the ethics of exotic pet ownership. Many iguanas are surrendered or abandoned when they become unmanageable. If you’re not ready for a long-term commitment, this may not be the pet for you.
Are You Ready? 5 Quick Questions to Ask Yourself
Do I have space for a 6-foot lizard?
Can I afford the proper lighting, heating, food, and vet care?
Am I prepared for 15+ years of daily care?
Do I have time to socialize and interact with my iguana?
Do I understand the risks of handling a potentially aggressive animal?
If you answered yes to all of the above — congratulations. You may be ready to provide a good home for one of the most fascinating reptiles in the pet world.
Iguanas are beautiful, intelligent creatures that deserve proper care, space, and respect. If you’re up for the challenge, the bond you can form with a well-socialized iguana is truly rewarding. But if you're not ready for that level of commitment, it’s better to admire them from afar than to adopt one impulsively.
Choose wisely — your future scaly friend is counting on it.
