Tips for Choosing an Iguana

The number of iguanas as pets is growing by leaps and bounds. However, because of the lack of knowledge in how to care for an iguana by first time owners, many die within the first year. The first step in keeping your iguana alive and well for many years is to start off with a healthy one.

In order to have an iguana which is truly a pet; one you can pick up, walk on a leash, or put on your shoulder, buy a baby one whom you can socialize. The older they are the harder they are to socialize.

Thee are things to check to make sure the iguana you are considering buying is healthy. The eyes should be bright, clear, and alert. There should be no signs of sores, wounds, or runny eyes.

If the jaws or thighs are thick or deformed this could be a sign of a common disease in young iguanas called metabolic disease. However, the iguana's thighs could just be naturally fat, so with your thumb and forefinger gently squeeze the thigh. If the thigh is hard, metabolic disease is probably present.

Observe the iguana to try to determine his temperament. When you try to pick him up he will probably run away; this is normal. However, if he runs wildly around his cage or butts his head repeatedly against the glass of the cage; this isn't normal.

If the iguana doesn't run away but instead stands his ground, puffs up, hisses, and whips his tail, he probably has an aggressive temperament and may be difficult to socialize.

When you first pick up the iguana he will probably squirm and try to bite you. If he does try to bite this provides you with a good opportunity to check out the inside of his mouth. If you see sores, pus, or that teeth are missing, don't buy this individual.

Now that you know what to look for in an iguana, where do you buy one?

The most popular and easiest place is your local pet store. These iguanas are probably from South America. Because the conditions under which they are shipped to pet stores are not ideal, these iguanas may have health problems.

Talk to the sales people or owner of the pet store to see if they are knowledgeable about the care of iguanas. Also check the cages and health of other animals in the pet store to see if they are well cared for. If the cages are dirty and the animals seem like they may be sick, don't buy from this store.

Another place to find iguanas are at reptile expos. They are held all over the United States at various times of the year. There will be vendors at these expos selling reptiles and reptile supplies. The prices are usually good (lower than pet stores) and the selection is large.

The main drawback to buying an iguana at an expo is that it is difficult to judge its temperament. Being in a strange place with lots of people and noise can turn even the most mild-mannered iguana into a nervous wreck.

Because iguanas are imported very cheaply, private breeders are hard to find. Ask around at veterinarian's offices, herp societies, or search the Internet. If you are lucky enough to find a private breeder, he can give you lots of information about the iguana. He can tell you about the iguana's temperament, diet, and any health problems. Also you can be sure the iguana won't have parasites.

If you choose a healthy iguana and take proper care of him to ensure he stays healthy, your iguana will live for many years.