Iguana

An Iguana is a good companion for:

Children under 5

Seniors

Apartments/Condos

Children ages 5–11

Busy People

Rural Homes

Life Span

The life span for an iguana is over 15 years with proper care.

Typical Behavior

Iguanas are wild creatures, but can be tamed if handled daily. It is important never to grab an iguana by its tail because the tail can detach and cause harm to the iguana.

Veterinarians often see iguanas in their waiting rooms with a concerned owner who believes the iguana is sick. However, male iguanas sneeze as a way to extract the extra salt that is built up in their bodies.

Care Requirements

An iguana needs daily attention. Its enclosure should be cleaned of any feces daily, uneaten food needs to be removed within 24 hours and fresh water must be provided.

Once a week, the entire iguana habitat needs to be scrubbed clean. To clean your iguana’s home, you can use a solution of three percent bleach and water. It is important that you thoroughly rinse the tank and any accessories so there is no indication of the bleach smell.

Iguana's claws grow just like human nails and need to be trimmed regularly. Because these claws are very sharp and can harm you, it is recommended that a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles trim your iguana's claws.

Proper Habitat and Habitat Maintenance Requirements

There are many different species of iguanas, each having different growth rates and daily survival needs. We recommend that you contact a reptile specialist to determine the specific needs for your iguana species.

Generally, iguanas need a well-sized habitat with a secure lid. Iguanas feel most comfortable up high, with sufficient branches and shelves on which to lounge. It's kind to provide your iguana with a shallow bathing tub or box of damp sphagnum moss for its comfort and to help with shedding. Iguanas also need proper lighting, warmth and humidity.

Dietary Requirements

Iguanas require a well-balanced daily diet of 70 percent dark leafy greens, 20 percent vegetables and 10 percent fruit. It is important to stay away from iceberg lettuce, since it does not have the necessary dietary value, and chocolate.

Once a week take care to add a calcium and multi vitamin/mineral supplement to your iguana's food.

Financial Considerations for an Iguana:

Veterinary

It is recommended that your iguana have an annual examination with a veterinarian to ensure there are no underlining health problems.

Iguanas are considered an exotic pet and will need a veterinarian who specializes in iguanas, which could mean that you pay a little more.

Grooming

Iguanas need to have their claws trimmed regularly by an experienced veterinarian. The average cost is $15 for this service.

Animal Sitter

Choosing an animal sitter for your iguana is no easy task. It is recommended that you find a sitter experienced with iguanas so they know how to recognize whether your iguana is in distress.

Food

Seasonal fresh vegetables and fruit usually cost no more than $10 for a two week supply of food for your iguana.

Other Supplies:

Consult a local reptile specialist to determine all the special supply needs for your species, including a well-sized habitat, non-toxic plants, branches or shelves, a fluorescent light, a heat source, a thermometer and humidity gauge.

Interesting Facts about Iguanas:

• A mature adult male can measure over six feet long.
• Iguanas use small amounts of salmonella to help with digestion so it is important that you wash your hands after you handle an iguana.
• In the wild, iguanas spend most of their time in trees that are near water.
• Iguanas are excellent swimmers.