Harried Herps

Harried Herps

Some reptiles are very susceptible to stress. By definition, a pet is an animal that has been domesticated. Reptiles, however, are wild animals and retain all their wild instincts. To keep a reptile in captivity, you will need to understand his needs, both social and environmental. It is important to learn all you can about your reptile before you bring him home. Find out if your type of pet is easily stressed. Some reptiles including captive-bred rat snakes, king snakes, boas, Burmese pythons, ball pythons and iguanas are bothered very little by stress. Others, such as chameleons, are highly susceptible.

What Are The Causes of Stress?

Any changes, sudden or protracted, will cause stress to your reptile. Many reptiles are actually caught in the wild and brought into captivity; therefore, it will take some time for such pets to adapt to their new home.

Protracted changes usually come from the environment. Reptiles need specific degrees of heat and cool for their bodies to thermoregulate. If there are irregularities, they will suffer. They need sufficient, clean water to soak in and appropriate food. Competition between pets can be a problem if one is dominant and exerts his power over the weaker pet and keeps him away from the food and water.

Sudden changes include sensitivity to human activity or the presence of other pets. Most reptiles think that humans are predators. They become stressed whenever you approach, and they do not like to be handled. Changes of home or ownership will be stressful to your pet. When you first bring him home, he will probably refuse to eat. It is best to allow him a few days to acclimatize to his new surroundings before he is expected to eat or receive attention.

Symptoms of Stress

There have been cases of reptiles displaying their stress by irregular shedding or changing color, but their owners thought it was normal. So how do you know if your pet is stressed? Some of the most common things to look for are a change or dullness in skin color, a disinclination to eat, infrequent defecation, lethargy, a longer time spent basking or hiding, increased activity at usually quiet times and shedding in stages or incomplete shedding.

How to Minimize Stress

Establishing the right conditions in your pet's home will help reduce the likelihood of stress. Proper heating and lighting is needed as reptiles are cold-blooded and need both a hot basking area and a cool hiding area to maintain their body temperature. If the temperature is not hot enough, they will suffer from stress, even hypothermia. If it too hot, they will overheat. The lighting should also represent the day and night hours of their natural climate. Some reptiles need full spectrum UVB lighting to maintain their health. Be certain to research your pet reptile to ensure you are providing the correct lighting for his health and well being.

Your pet needs a water source where he can fully immerse himself and a substrate that can be used for hiding. Reptiles are often nervous and easily stressed by what is happening around them and they need somewhere to hide, away from external activity. Without the safety of a hiding place, they will quickly become stressed and possibly even attack.

A varied and interesting assortment of branches and rocks are needed for basking and playing. Reptiles are intelligent animals and need to have a stimulating environment.

And finally, your reptile will need suitable food. Again, do your research to find out what your reptile eats. Many reptiles have different nutrition requirements.

Before buying your pet, make sure you know how to keep him happy and healthy. Many reptiles suffer unnecessarily as a result of owners being unaware of their needs. For a wonderful and fruitful relationship with your pet, arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible to avoid causing undue stress.