Lizard Care 101: The Complete Guide to Keeping a Happy, Healthy Lizard

Why Lizards Make Wonderful Pets

Lizards are captivating, intelligent reptiles that come in an incredible variety of shapes, sizes, and personalities. From the friendly bearded dragon to the colorful leopard gecko, there's a lizard for every type of keeper. With the right setup and care, they can live 10–20+ years and become truly rewarding companions.

Choosing the Right Enclosure

• Leopard geckos: Minimum 20-gallon tank
• Bearded dragons: 120-gallon tank for adults
• Crested geckos: Tall enclosures for climbing

Lighting Requirements

• UVB lighting: Essential for calcium metabolism — replace every 6 months
• Basking light: Provides warm spot for thermoregulation
• Light cycle: 12–14 hours of light daily

Temperature & Humidity

Desert Species (Bearded Dragons, Leopard Geckos)

• Basking spot: 38–43°C (100–110°F)
• Cool side: 24–27°C (75–80°F)
• Humidity: 30–40%

Tropical Species (Crested Geckos)

• Basking spot: 28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Humidity: 60–80%

Feeding Your Lizard

Insectivores

• Crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms, waxworms
• Dust insects with calcium + D3 supplement 3x per week
• Feed juveniles daily, adults every other day

Omnivores

• 50% vegetables, 30% protein, 20% fruits (occasional)
• Calcium dusting 4–5x per week for juveniles

Common Health Issues

• Metabolic Bone Disease: Caused by lack of UVB or calcium
• Respiratory infection: Wheezing or mucus — check temperatures
• Incomplete shed: Soak in warm water to help

Handling Tips

• Allow 1–2 weeks to settle before handling
• Start with short 5–10 minute sessions
• Support the full body — never grab by the tail
• Schedule annual vet check-ups with a reptile specialist

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