Iguanas – How to Set Up Your Iguana Cage
One of the best ways to create a more natural environment for your iguana is to use a Iguana Enclosure. Unlike a glass or acrylic cage, an iguana enclosure allows you to maintain a much larger habitat for your exotic friend. However, you must be aware that your iguana is still a exotic animal and requires special care. Many people don’t realize that these beautiful and exotic pets need the same things as any other pet. That’s why it’s important to research the different types of enclosures before making your final purchase.
The first thing you should think about when choosing an iguana enclosure is where you plan to keep your pet. Some people prefer a terrarium while others enjoy a fenced in pen. Both are acceptable choices and you shouldn’t let the decision of where to keep your new pet drive your decision. You need to provide a suitable habitat for your new pet and one that’s as close to home as possible. Consider the following factors when adding live plants to your iguana enclosure:
* The size of your terrarium needs to be proportionate to your pet. The average Iguanas live to be approximately 10 years old. That’s pretty long! To give yourself adequate room for your iguana to roam around, consider purchasing an eyecatcher. An eyecatcher allows you to put a small ball under the soil of the enclosure. This will allow your iguana to get used to seeing their reflection every day.
* It is important to buy good quality lizards and keepers. Many iguanas will suffer from stress and injury if their keepers are not of high quality. Lizards such as the Amazons are prone to suffering from diseases and infections brought on by poor keepers. Be sure to invest in a well made and humane lid for your enclosure.
* Make sure your pet lizard is warmly suited before introducing live plants into your new enclosure. Lizards like warmth and do not do well in cold environments. Many lizards will adapt to the temperature of the greenhouse but there are others which will have trouble adapting at all. There are some natural plants which can make your green house a more exciting place to be while helping your exotic pet enjoy their new home. Make sure the temperature and humidity are fine for your pet and you’re off to a great start.
* Many live plants can be eaten by iguanas. They have razor sharp teeth and little saliva enough to be able to consume some types of food. But they can also be problematic. Many species of lizards are quite particular about their habitat. They can be quite temperamental if you don’t conform to their standards.
* Do not make plants an important part of your habitat. Some species of iguanas will eat just about anything, including their food, and even if they are provided with small amounts of plants it will often be at a very minimal rate. It is best to limit the amount of plants that are consumed in an enclosure for these animals. If you do need to include some types of vegetation, make sure that the soil is not planted in such a way that it will trap moisture. This is often found in the middle of dry deserts or rocky areas where rock and soil meet.
* You will also want to make sure your iguana cage has some type of ventilation in the interior of the cage. This can be accomplished in many ways. If the cage is opened on the top, you can place a small piece of wire inside the top. If your screen top enclosure has sides that are left open, you can put small pieces of wood shavings inside the cage and build a small ventilation hole in the top and bottom. Either way, make sure there is a good amount of air movement in the cage.
