 REPTILE
BASIC CARE.
Know your reptile pet's NATURAL
environment and diet. Your library and pet store should
be able to help you research the natural history of
the species you keep.
Create a captive environment that is not only beautiful,
but easy to clean. Plants in pots (for example) are
much easier to manage than a rooted terrarium. Use a
DOUBLE SET of substrate material, OR use disposable
substrates to facilitate weekly cleaning. A double set
of pebbles or small stones means that one set can be
washed and disinfected carefully, dried and stored ready
for the next cleaning. Branches, logs, and huts should
also be doubled to allow time for proper cleaning (if
not disposable). Use a substrate that will not be accidentally
swallowed during feeding or exploration. Small items
can cause obstructions if they stick to food and are
swallowed.
Provide heat in a sensible form. Climbing reptiles will
not get much benefit from an undertank heater, especially
if the bedding insulates well. Do not use "white"
lights for heat, as they should not be left on at night.
The reptile will need heat at night as well. Hot "rocks"
are not helpful for hiding species like leopard geckoes
– they are not comfortable lying in an exposed
position.
 Use
at least two thermometers in different areas of you
enclosure to determine the ambient temperature. Block
part of a screen top if you need to retain more heat
or humidity.Many tropical species will need high humidity
levels. A shallow bathing dish over or under a heat
source will help. Mist such species frequently. Change
water in dishes every day.
Use full spectrum fluorescent lighting for most reptile
species.
Use an appropriate dietary supplement if your pet is
not eating the same diet it would encounter in the wild.
Some reptiles need extra calcium or vitamins to help
balance the captive diet.
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