Do you want a pet that is low-maintenance, interesting, and cute? If so, then you should consider getting a reptile! Reptiles make great pets for people of all ages, and there are many different types to choose from. Here are nine reasons why you should consider getting a reptile as a pet, including tips on how to care for your new pet.
Reptiles are cold-blooded, have dry skin, and often have scales. They include animals such as snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodiles. Some people also consider frogs and toads to be reptiles. Reptiles are found all over the world and come in many different shapes and sizes.
There are many reasons why reptiles make great pets. Here are nine of the top reasons.
1. Allergies Aren’t An Issue
If you’re allergic to pet dander, then a reptile is the perfect pet for you! Reptiles don’t have fur or feathers, so there is no dander for you to be allergic to. An increasing number of people are finding they are allergic to pet fur. Sometimes allergies come on randomly, meaning you could also become allergic to your furry pet in the future. With reptiles, this isn’t an issue.
2. They Have Long Lives
Reptiles can live a long time! Depending on the species, your reptile pet could live anywhere from 20 to 50 years. By some estimates, the rhino iguana has even lived for up to 75 years! This means you won’t have to say goodbye to your pet for a long time. By way of contrast, hamsters only live for about three years and dogs typically live for 12 years on average, depending on the breed.
3. Less Grooming is Required
Reptiles don’t need to be bathed extensively and they don’t need their fur or scales brushed. This means there is very little grooming required. Lizards will need to have their nails trimmed every few months, but this is a simple process that can be done at home. Turtles and tortoises will need to have their shells cleaned every few weeks. This can be done by using a soft brush and warm water. Overall, the amount of grooming required for reptiles is much less than that required for other pets such as dogs and cats.
4. No Walks Needed
Reptiles don’t need to be walked, which is good news for people who live in apartments or have busy lifestyles. If you don’t have time to walk a dog, then a reptile is a great alternative. Some reptiles, such as snakes, can even be left alone for weeks at a time. As long as they have food and water, they will be fine.
Of course, reptiles do need some exercise. This can be provided by using a reptile treadmill or by letting your pet roam around your home for a few hours each week.
5. They’re Not Noisy
Reptiles are generally very quiet, which is good news for people who live in apartments or have noise sensitivities. The only time you will likely hear your reptile pet make any noise is when they are eating. Some reptiles, such as frogs and toads, can make croaking noises. But overall, reptiles are much quieter than other pets such as dogs and birds.
6. Low Maintenance
If you have a reptile, you will need to clean out their living space regularly. For example, if you get a snake, its cage will need to be cleaned every one to two weeks. This involves removing the snake from its cage, cleaning the cage with soap and water, and then putting the snake back in. Lizards will need their cage cleaned every one to two weeks as well. This involves a similar process to snakes. Turtles and tortoises will need their tanks cleaned every two to four weeks.
7. Less Regular Feeding
Some reptiles, such as snakes, will need to be fed live prey. This can seem daunting at first, but it’s actually not as bad as it sounds. You can buy live prey from most pet stores. Alternatively, you can raise your own live prey, such as crickets or mealworms. Also, as folks behind TopFlight Dubia note, Dubia Roaches are something most bearded dragons and other reptiles love so you may want to try them out. Reptiles generally don’t need to be fed every day. Snakes can go a week or more between meals, while lizards and turtles will need to be fed every one to two days. The frequency of feeding will also depend on the size of your reptile. Smaller reptiles will need to be fed more often than larger ones. However, compared to cats and dogs, you don’t need to have such a rigid feeding schedule.
8. They Don’t Need a Lot of Space
Reptiles generally don’t need a lot of space. This is good news for people who live in small apartments or have limited space in their homes. Snakes can be kept in relatively small cages, as long as they are long enough to allow the snake to stretch out. Lizards also don’t need very large cages. They can be kept in Terrariums or vivariums, which are small, enclosed spaces. Turtles and tortoises need a bit more space than other reptiles, but they can still be kept in relatively small tanks.
9. They’re Unusual and Interesting Pets
Reptiles are unusual and interesting pets. They can make great conversation starters and they are sure to impress your friends and family. If you are looking for a pet that is a bit out of the ordinary, then a reptile is a great choice.
Reptiles are a great choice for people who are looking for low-maintenance pets. If you’re thinking of getting a reptile, make sure you consider all these points before making your choice. But you might just find a reptile is a better fit for you, versus the more commonly chosen dogs and cats.
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