Over the next few months, I will be covering topics related to exotic pet ownership. These articles will include information and data on ownership of reptiles/amphibians, small mammals and birds. Exotics can be fun and rewarding to keep as pets but typically have very specific needs depending on the species.
The American Veterinary Medical Association conducts a pet census every year. In 2024, 11.6 percent of pets in the US were in the “other” category. Of those, 14.8 percent of people owned reptiles (snakes, turtles, and lizards). Only 28.7 percent of “other” pet owners have a relationship with a veterinarian, which is much lower than the 86.8 percent of dog owners and 77.1 percent of cat owners.
In general, exotics don’t often come to the vet for wellness visits. They do not have any vaccines or preventatives that require an annual vet visit. Even without those needs, it is still recommended to have an annual check-up with a veterinarian.
You can legally own many different reptile species in Connecticut. The most common reptiles kept as pets in the US are bearded dragons, ball pythons, and leopard geckos. Each of these species will have specific temperature and humidity requirements, which is something to think about before getting a reptile for a pet. Reptiles do not control their own body temperatures but rather regulate their temperature with the environment around them. While many reptiles have fewer daily needs, they do require special equipment and skills to provide their appropriate husbandry.
The most common health problems that we see with reptiles are due to improper husbandry. Without the appropriate temperatures, they may not be able to eat or digest foods. Without the appropriate humidity, they may not be able to shed efficiently. Without the proper supplementation and lighting, they may not have enough calcium to keep their bones healthy. All of these things should be considered before choosing a reptile for a pet.
Once you have decided a reptile is right for you, there are many different reptile species to chose from. One consideration is diet type. Some reptiles are carnivores, like snakes and some turtle species. Some reptiles are herbivores, like certain species of iguanas and Uromastyx. And then there are species that are omnivores, meaning they eat a mix of proteins and plants, like bearded dragons. Just like humans, variety in their diets can help hit nutritional milestones.
When handling reptiles, it is important to remember that most reptiles carry salmonella. So wash your hands after handling them and maintain appropriate hygiene.
If you are thinking about adding a reptile to your family, the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians is a great resource for finding a veterinarian in your area or for more information about owning and caring for reptiles.