Tips for keeping reptiles
The reptile world is full of interesting animals. There are dozens of different snakes and lizards available as pets, and all of them have unique traits. Although each species is very different from each other, all reptiles share some similar traits. If you’re planning to keep reptiles, here’s some general advice to almost all of them.
It takes longer to bond with a reptile
Reptiles have smaller brains than mammals, and tend to be more instinctive than mammals. While you can eventually get to the point where your reptile can be pet and cuddled, it won’t happen at the same speed as a cat or a dog.
Trying to rush the bonding process can also be dangerous to you. While snakes and reptiles aren’t as reactive as their wild counterparts, they can still bite when they feel threatened. Even a hand simply reaching toward them can cause them to bite.
Snakes and other reptiles should be treated respectfully at all times, even when you are completely confident in the individual animal.
Research their environment
When setting up your reptiles tank or cage, it’s important to think about where they originally come from, as well as the fact that they are cold blooded. At the minimum, the tank should have a lamp where they can warm up if they are cold, and a shaded area on the opposite side where they can go if they feel hot.
Their area should also reflect the environment that the species originally came from. Lots of climbing spots and hiding places for chameleons that mimic their natural habitat, rocks and sand for desert animals.
By taking the time to research their environment, you’ll help provide them a place they can feel relaxed and stress free in.
Use UVB/UVA bulbs
Special bulbs that give off UVB and UVA will result in happier animals, and more natural behaviors. The bulbs should be replaced once every 12 months, even if they still work. This is because although the bulb is still emitting light, it will not emit as much UVB over time.
When using these bulbs, it’s important to keep your pet’s habitat away from windows and other sources of sunlight on top of that. The combination of sunlight and the lighting can make the cage too hot for your pet, who then has nowhere to escape.
Wash your hands
It’s important to wash your hands both before and after handling your reptile. Many reptiles, especially snakes, depend on their keen sense of smell to determine whether something coming at them is food, a predator, or a friend.
If your hand smells like meat for example (chicken especially) your snake might strike at you, mistaking your hand for food.
Reptiles can also carry bacteria such as salmonella, and could make you sick if you don’t wash your hands after handling them.
It’s important to research your specific reptile to make sure that you can provide it with a healthy, happy home, but these general tips are important for all reptiles. Use them and you’ll be that much closer to keeping your animal happu.
https://www.zillarules.com/articles/top-ten-reptile-amphibian-care-tips