Is there an iguana hanging out in your Treasure Coast home? Florida is a great place for iguanas. These tree-dwelling modern dinosaurs can do quite well here; so well, in fact, that feral iguanas are popping up all over south Florida. For tips on protecting your pet in various situations, see the article ‘Keeping Your Pet Safe Around the Holidays‘.
The reason iguanas do so well in Florida is that our climate offers two things iguanas need to live: heat and water. If you have a pet iguana, you’ll want to give it regular baths. Wild iguanas stay clean by jumping into pools of water or rubbing up against trees and rocks. Since your pet iguana’s cage probably doesn’t have either a swimming pool or enough landscaping to double as a spa, you’ll need to take care of your pet’s bathing needs yourself, probably by giving him some tub time.
To give your iguana a bath, you’ll first want to fill the tub with warm water that is a few inches deep; no higher than your lizard’s chest. You may want to put some towels down on the floor around the bathtub, in case your iguana splashes around a lot. Go ahead and place Izzy in the water. If your iguana has never had a bath before, he may be frightened at first, and you can expect some thrashing and flailing. This should stop once he realizes that A) you’re not trying to kill him and B) baths actually feel pretty good. Be careful not to put too much water in the tub, as you don’t want your iguana to drown! Let your lizard soak for a while, but don’t let the water get cold, as your iguana may not be able to move.
Don’t use soap or bubble bath on your iguana. If your iguana has dirt or feces stuck to him after soaking for a while, you can use a few drops of baby soap and a washcloth or toothbrush on that area, but otherwise, just use plain water. Also, never leave your iguana alone in the tub.
Many iguana owners bathe their lizards daily. Soaking is really good for iguanas in a few ways. First and foremost, it moistens their skin, which can help prevent cracks, skin irritation, and infection. Your pet will also be breathing air that is higher in humidity while in the bathtub. Many iguanas also drink their bathwater, so it may also help keep him hydrated.
If you have a pool, and your iguana can swim, you can give your lizard a bit of swim time, so long as he is monitored. Be careful not to turn your back, because he might just climb out of the pool and take off to explore the rest of Treasure Coast!
Our Advice on Bathing Your Iguana
Why is it important to give your pet iguana regular baths?
Regular baths are vital for pet iguanas as they replicate natural behaviors, helping maintain skin health by moisturizing and preventing cracks, irritation, or infections. Baths also offer hydration as iguanas often drink the bathwater, and the humid environment supports their respiratory health. Bathing also helps overall cleanliness, removing dirt and feces from their skin.
How do you safely bathe an iguana at home?
To safely bathe an iguana at home, fill a tub with warm water no more profound than the iguana’s chest. Place towels around the tub to handle splashing. Gently put your iguana in the water, avoiding soaps or bubble baths. Use a soft brush for tough spots. Never leave your iguana unattended in the tub, and ensure the water remains warm, as cold water can hinder their movement. Bathing should be a calm, stress-free experience for your iguana.
Can you use soap or bubble bath on iguanas during their bath?
It’s best to avoid using soap or bubble bath when bathing iguanas, as their skin is sensitive. Plain, warm water is usually sufficient for cleaning. If there’s stubborn dirt or feces, a few drops of gentle, fragrance-free baby soap can be used sparingly on the affected area, along with a soft brush or cloth. Thoroughly rinse any soap to prevent skin irritation. Always prioritize the iguana’s safety and comfort during bath time.
How often should iguanas be bathed for optimal health?
For optimal health, iguanas should be bathed regularly, ideally daily. Consistent bathing helps maintain skin hydration, reduces the risk of skin infections, and supports overall cleanliness. It also provides a source of hydration, as iguanas often drink their bathwater. The routine of regular baths can also be a soothing and enriching experience for them, mimicking their natural habitat conditions.
What should you do if your iguana has never had a bath before?
If your iguana has never had a bath before, start by introducing them gradually. Begin with shallow, warm water in a tub, ensuring it’s no higher than their chest. Let them explore and get comfortable at their own pace. Provide gentle reassurance and avoid sudden movements. Initially, keep bath times short to prevent stress. Over time, as they acclimate, you can slowly increase the duration. Always supervise closely to ensure their safety and comfort.
For comprehensive health check-ups and guidance on your iguana’s care, consider our ‘Vet Preventive Care’ services. Contact us, your local animal clinic in St. Lucie County, FL!
