Reptiles
Caring for a reptile
Reptiles make interesting and unusual pets but they need specialist care and can be expensive to look after.
Iguanas can live for 20 years and snakes as long as 50 years so owning a reptile is definitely a long-term commitment. Before taking on the responsibility of looking after a reptile, make sure that you can provide everything it needs.
Habitat
Reptiles might start out small but a baby iguana can grow to over a meter long and some breeds of python can grow to more than five meters. You need to make sure that you have enough space for your reptile at its full size.
Your reptile will need a specially built home to recreate its natural habitat as closely as possible, including temperature, light and humidity. Many reptiles will also need space to swim, branches to climb or ultra-violet light.
Creating a specialised habitat is expensive and maintaining it can be time consuming.
You'll also have to make sure that your pet’s enclosure is secure. Reptiles that escape can get lost and even die if they get too cold. Some reptiles – such as certain snakes – are also dangerous and this needs to be taken into consideration.
Diet
Reptiles have to be fed on a specialised diet that may include insects or rodents, which might not be readily available in your area.
Expert advice
You should seek expert advice on how to care for your reptile and how to handle it. For example, you will need to learn the correct way to pick it up so as not to injure your reptile or put yourself at risk.
Health
Keeping your reptile in unsuitable conditions can result in a number or injuries and illnesses.
You will need to find a vet that can treat reptiles, and you may need to travel some way to find a specialist.
You can have your reptile microchipped once it reaches a certain size, however the RSPCA recommends that you consult a specialist before doing so.
You should consider pet insurance to help with the cost of vet’s fees, which can be very expensive when treating certain species.
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