Housing for Reptiles
There are many housing alternatives for reptiles to the traditional aquarium. All Glass Aquarium makes a Critter Cage which has a built in sliding screen. The tank, specially designed for critters and reptiles has glass is thinner than aquariums which allows it to be more economical but unable to hold water. There are also a number of viquariums available that allow both water and land creatures. The most popular brand is River Tanks. You can also custom build your own using a water pump and rocks. For reptiles and lizards that need a dry habitat, cages are available for them. These allow your lizard more room for climbing as well as humidity to escape.
Lighting
Lighting is important for all lizards and reptiles. Most require both heat emission as well as a full-spectrum lighting that supplies Vitamin-D. Because reptiles and lizards need high amounts calcium, sunlight is necessary for absorption. Some lights such as Reptile Combo Light by ESU combine both fluorescent and incandescent bulb fixtures onto one unit. Larger units even allow the use of a nocturnal heating lamp for use at night. Be sure to use a lighting fixture that has a ceramic fixture as cheaper kinds can overheat easily.
Bedding
Bedding is important to reptiles and lizards as they simulate their natural environment as well as keep their habitat clean. Traditional cage liners work well for reptiles and lizards but are not the best when it comes to absorbing waste. Wood chips work well for some reptiles but often promote mites or other parasites. One type of bedding – Bed-A-Beast is a great bedding for reptiles and amphibians as well as incubating eggs. It comes in a compressed format and is non-toxic, all natural and safe for most reptiles. Repti-Sand is also a good alternative that provides a dry area for lizards. Some are also fortified with calcium which is also a good feature for lizards.
Cage Cleaner
It is important to never use soap when cleaning any pet cage. Reptiles and lizards as well as all pets are much smaller than humans and are more sensitive to chemicals. There are several non-toxic cleaners that work well in reptile and lizard cages. Nature’s Miracle is a good cleaner for pets and is non-toxic. However, some reptiles and lizards require a stronger cleaner. ZooMed makes a line of cleaners called Wipe Out which can be used to clean cages as well as hands after handling. All pets, especially reptiles and lizards can carry diseases. It is important to clean their cages well.
