Green Iguanas

Green Iguanas are the largest of the pet iguanas and are some of the most popular reptile pets. However, they can be difficult to care for. They can be aggressive if they are not handled properly and they are very powerful. You might consider using protective gear when handling them. They grow to be big, so they need a large cage. They are the type of reptile that likes to climb, so height in their enclosure is important.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Iguana_V.jpg

Dangerous?

Both their bite and their swinging tail can be dangerous to humans. They will attack if they feel threatened.  You also need to supervise them when they are around other pets.

Like People?

They are not fond of humans. If you handle them gently and frequently, they will adapt to letting you touch them. Some iguanas will enjoy climbing on their humans. Just be careful or their claws and, of course, their tails and teeth.

Sleep

They are pretty lazy animals and then to like to just bask on branches. They are awake during the day however.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Green_Iguana_(Iguana_iguana)_-_Flickr_-_berniedup.jpg

Size

Iguanas can grow to be large and they grow fast. They can grow up to 7 feet long, including their tail, and weigh 20 pounds.

Temperature and Humidity

They need a basking area of about 95 degrees F, a hot area of 85 degrees or higher, and a cooler area that should never go below 75 degrees. 

The cage should be kept at 70% humidity. Mist them a few times a day so they stay moist. They will also enjoy being submerged in a warm bath a few times a week.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Iguana_iguana_Florida_2006.JPG

Habitat

They need a tall, large habitat. They like to climb, so there should be several sturdy branches for them. Some people convert a whole small room, large closet, or sun room to house an iguana. A cage should be 12 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 8 feet tall. They are not good pets for a cramped apartment!

They will spend most of the time climbing, so the bedding is not too important. Reptile carpet, paper bedding, aspen or cypress bedding are ok, as long as there are no particles small enough for the iguana to try to eat.

They also require UV lights 10-12 hours a day or, better yet, lots of exposure to the sun.

Diet

Iguanas are vegetarian. No crickets or roaches for them. Too much protein is bad for them. You can give the commercial iguana food and leafy vegetables chopped up into tiny peices. A calcium supplement is also a good thing for them. They like to drink, so make sure they always have fresh water.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?search=Green+Iguana&title=Special:MediaSearch&go=Go&type=image

Lifespan and Health

They can live for 20 years or longer, so having an iguana is a big commitment unless you adopt one that is older.

They are prone to kidney disease, so make sure they always have water to drink. Giving them calcium can help prevent metabolic bone disease. They can also carry salmonella and you should wash your hands after handling them.

To find out about other reptile pets and pets of other species, return to the Best Pet For Me List.

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