Before deciding to buy an iguana as a pet, you should find out about the basic requirements for having such a pet. It is not wise to choose an iguana as a pet because your friends have one or because it is the new trend. It is a difficult task to raise an iguana correctly and it should not be taken lightly.
Consider the following information before making any rash decisions:
1. Iguanas are not cheap.
Don’t be fooled into thinking that owning an iguana is just as affordable as owning a dog or cat. Once you have paid first price for your iguana, there will be many more expenses to come. There are the accessories, equipment and facilities that are required for the enclosure or cage that you use to house your pet. These may include special lights, temperature timers, heaters, etc. You will also need artificial shelves or furniture to act as branches for your pet. So you have to feed your iguana. Foods include green leafy vegetables and fruits that are rich in calcium and vitamins. Make sure you have a budget for everything you’ll need to keep your pet healthy and happy.
2. Iguanas are not low-maintenance pets.
When iguanas are young, they appear very small and innocent. However, they need to be handled very carefully and receive proper treatment for them. Otherwise, they can cause you a lot of trouble.
Your living area should be washed regularly to keep it hygienically safe. You also need time to train and tame your pet on a daily basis so that when it is older it will be easy to handle and without discipline problems. Do not leave dressage for when they are older because they will respond more aggressive and restless.
3. Iguanas are not “huggable”
Remember that iguanas are not like cats and dogs that can easily curl up in your lap. You can just put them on your shoulder or hold them in your arms. There are certain restrictions regarding being too close to your iguana because its health can sometimes be at risk. This is more likely if you have a wild iguana that is likely to bite or scratch you when around.
4. Iguanas are not as social with other pets.
Iguanas just can’t learn to get along with their other pets, no matter how hard they try. Iguanas are wary of other animals because they consider them their enemies who wish to prey on them. You will often find that if your iguana is in the same vicinity as other pets, it will go and hide in a quiet, dark corner.
5. Iguanas are not the best pets for children.
Minors do not have enough skills and information about iguana care and management and therefore you should prohibit your young children from owning one until they are old enough to learn about the responsibility involved. Let them stay with cats and dogs in the meantime.
So are you prepared for your pet iguana? I hope so!