Reptiles and amphibians, commonly known as herptiles, are very quiet and have very limited odor.
This makes them an excellent choice for pets.
They are especially suited for dorm rooms and small apartments as they can live in very small enclosures.
Unlike dogs, reptiles do not need to be fed every day.
It is a good idea to keep a consistent feeding schedule, but if you are away for a day or two, they will survive just fine.
Reptiles require less cleaning than many other types of pets.
This makes them an ideal pet for persons with an active lifestyle.
The cage or enclosure requirement for reptiles depends on their size.
Obviously, large reptiles need large cages.
If you choose to have more than one type of herptile, make sure to house them according to their type.
Do not house animals together that are incompatible.
Choose taller cages for climbing reptiles and wider cages for ground dwellers.
Most importantly, make sure your pet's cage is escape proof.
Besides the size and shape, make sure your pet's enclosure has adequate heating, lighting, floor covering and cleaning.
It is best to keep your pet's enclosure warm on one side and cooler on the other.
This will let your reptile choose the most comfortable temperature.
Reptiles cannot regulate their body temperature, so they need to have a thermal gradient to their enclosure.
Heating elements come in may forms.
Basking lamps and ceramic heating elements make good heat sources inside an enclosure.
Heating may also be provided by sources outside the cage, such as the ambient room temperature.
Lighting can be provided with incandescent or fluorescent bulbs.
In many cases, heat and light can come form the same source, such as the basking lamp mentioned above.
Some reptiles need natural lighting while others can survive with artificial lighting.
Fluorescent lights are almost as good as natural sunlight.
Be sure to ask your pet specialist which kind of lighting is required for your pet.
Floor coverings in your pets enclosure need to be reptile friendly.
Carpet designed for humans is not a good choice for your herptile.
The most important factor to consider when choosing a floor covering for your pet is the ease of cleaning.
Be ware of micro-organisms that can grow and breed in the crevices of the enclosure.
Your pet requires fresh water and clean food dishes everyday.
Weekly cleanings of the cage should keep your pet healthy and happy.