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How do I Care for a Baby Iguana?

Jacquelyn Gilchrist
Jacquelyn Gilchrist

Before deciding to get a baby iguana, consider how large the reptile will become. Iguanas can grow up to 6.5 ft (about 2 m) long, and can weigh up to 11 lbs (about 5 kg). They can also live for approximately 20 years. New iguana owners should be sure that they are able to properly care for their new pet. This includes providing the proper housing, nutrition, and health care.

Carefully check the state of the baby iguana's health before bringing him home. Iguanas should not be lethargic, they should be active and alert. The stomach should not be distended and the limbs should not appear swollen. Check the underside of the baby, he should not have feces stains there. If the pet store's iguana enclosure is filthy, obtain your new pet elsewhere, as the iguanas are being exposed to bacteria.

Baby iguanas can be fed mango.
Baby iguanas can be fed mango.

Prepare an iguana enclosure that is at least 55 gallons (about 242 liters) in size. As the reptile grows, he will need an even larger aquarium. This home should be lined with the proper substrate, or bedding. Iguanas should not be housed with wood chips, as they may irritate the animal's respiratory system. The substrate may be bark chips or newspaper, provided that the newspaper uses only soy-based ink.

Iguanas like to climb. The aquarium should have plenty of sturdy branches for climbing, which can be purchased at a pet supply store. This will not only help keep the baby iguana happy, it will also provide him with exercise to keep him healthy.

Collard greens and other dark, leafy greens should make up more than half of a baby iguana's diet.
Collard greens and other dark, leafy greens should make up more than half of a baby iguana's diet.

The temperature in the baby iguana's housing area should be strictly regulated. Iguanas move into hotter temperature areas when they are too cool, and back into cooler areas when they feel hot. Such a basking area should be between 95° and 100° F (35° to 38° C) for heat, with the other end between 80° and 85° F (26.5° to 29.5° C) for cooling. The temperature can typically be regulated with a heat lamp and a thermometer.

Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Iguanas are herbivores, which means that they eat only plants. Baby iguanas should be offered food twice daily, however, some may only eat once a day. Over half of their food should be composed of dark, leafy greens — such as mustard greens, collard greens, and turnip greens. Baby iguanas also enjoy grated vegetables, such as carrots, pumpkin, and zucchini, as well as fruits like mango, strawberries, and kiwi. All foods should be chopped into bite-sized pieces.

Calcium is an essential supplement for iguanas. Baby iguanas require a calcium powder dusting on their food, three times per week. Water should be constantly available in a water bowl. A misting water bottle should be used to spray the enclosure once daily, in order to raise the humidity level. Your new baby may also enjoy licking this water off the enclosure walls.

Baby iguanas are feisty pets, however, they do require a high level of maintenance. Only bring a new iguana home if you are certain you can provide adequate care for him. In addition to giving him the proper environment and nutrition, take your iguana to a veterinarian who can keep track of his health and trim his nails, if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of habitat is best for a baby iguana?

A baby iguana thrives in a warm, humid environment that mimics its natural tropical habitat. A glass aquarium with a screened top is commonly used, with temperatures ranging from 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and slightly cooler at night. Humidity levels should be maintained around 70-80%. Provide branches for climbing and UVB lighting essential for calcium metabolism.

How often should I feed my baby iguana, and what should their diet consist of?

Baby iguanas should be fed daily with a diet consisting mainly of leafy greens such as collard greens, dandelion greens, and mustard greens. Variety can be added with other vegetables and fruits. It's crucial to avoid or limit spinach and certain lettuces like iceberg, which offer little nutritional value. Supplements like calcium powder can be beneficial.

How do I ensure proper humidity and temperature in my baby iguana's enclosure?

Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity levels and a thermometer to check the temperature within the enclosure. A misting system or manual misting with water can help maintain humidity. For temperature control, use heat lamps or ceramic heaters, and ensure there's a cooler area within the enclosure to allow for thermoregulation.

What are the signs of a healthy baby iguana versus an unhealthy one?

A healthy baby iguana will have clear eyes, a clean nose, and vent, and exhibit regular eating and defecating habits. Its skin should be vibrant and free of sores or mites. An unhealthy iguana may show lethargy, lack of appetite, swelling, discoloration, or discharge from eyes or nose, which requires veterinary attention.

How do I handle and socialize my baby iguana?

Gentle and consistent handling is key to socializing a baby iguana. Start with short sessions, gradually increasing the time as your iguana becomes more comfortable. Support their body fully when handling, and avoid sudden movements that could startle them. Socialization is a slow process, so patience and regular, calm interaction are essential.

What are the common health issues to watch out for in baby iguanas?

Common health issues in baby iguanas include metabolic bone disease due to insufficient UVB light or calcium intake, respiratory infections from inadequate humidity or temperature, and parasitic infections. Signs of these conditions can include lethargy, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, or irregular droppings. Regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent and treat these issues.

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    • Baby iguanas can be fed mango.
      By: volff
      Baby iguanas can be fed mango.
    • Collard greens and other dark, leafy greens should make up more than half of a baby iguana's diet.
      By: Onionhead
      Collard greens and other dark, leafy greens should make up more than half of a baby iguana's diet.
    • Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
      By: vladischern
      Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.