Iguana Care Guide: How to Keep Your Iguana Healthy & Happy

Iguanas are one of the most impressive reptile pets you can own — intelligent, majestic, and full of personality. However, they are also one of the most demanding. With proper care, a green iguana can live 15–20 years and grow up to 6 feet long. Here's your complete care guide!

🏠 Setting Up the Perfect Enclosure

Iguanas grow large and need spacious enclosures. An adult iguana requires a minimum enclosure of 6' x 6' x 3' — custom-built enclosures are often the best option. Key features:

• Tall enclosures with sturdy climbing branches — iguanas are arboreal (tree-dwelling)
• Temperature gradient: basking spot 95–105°F, cool side 75–85°F
• Full-spectrum UVB lighting (10.0 or 12% UVB) — absolutely essential
• 12–14 hours of light per day to mimic natural conditions
• Humidity level of 60–80% — mist daily or use a fogger

🌿 Nutrition & Feeding

Iguanas are strict herbivores — never feed them animal protein. A balanced diet includes:

• Leafy greens (70%): Collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, and turnip greens
• Vegetables (20%): Squash, bell peppers, carrots, and green beans
• Fruit (10%): Mango, papaya, and berries as occasional treats
• Calcium supplement: Dust food with calcium powder 3–5 times per week
• Avoid: Spinach, beet greens, animal protein, and citrus in large amounts

Provide fresh water daily in a large, shallow dish — iguanas also absorb water through bathing.

🛁 Grooming & Hygiene

• Bathe your iguana 2–3 times per week in warm water — aids hydration and shedding
• Trim nails regularly — sharp claws can scratch during handling
• Check skin during shedding and assist with stuck shed using warm soaks
• Clean the enclosure thoroughly weekly

🤝 Taming & Handling

Iguanas can become very tame with consistent, gentle handling from a young age. Start with short daily sessions and gradually increase time. Always support their body fully and avoid sudden movements. A well-socialized iguana can be a remarkably affectionate companion.

💊 Health & Wellness

Common health issues include metabolic bone disease (from insufficient UVB or calcium), respiratory infections, and parasites. Annual vet check-ups with a reptile-experienced veterinarian are essential. Watch for signs of illness: lethargy, loss of appetite, swollen limbs, or labored breathing.

Explore our Iguana Collection for all the premium supplies your gentle giant needs to thrive! 🦎