If you're looking for a low maintenance pet with an exotic twist, look no further than a lizard. These scaled creatures require minimal attention and can be fascinating to watch in their habitat. But before you jump in and buy a lizard as a pet, there are a few important factors to consider.
Firstly, you need to decide which species of lizard is right for you. Different species have different needs and preferences when it comes to their environment, food and care. For beginners, it's important to choose a species that is docile and easy to handle. You should also consider the space you have available for your pet's habitat, as some species can grow quite large.
You will also need to consider the cost of owning a lizard. While they may be low maintenance, they still require a particular diet and habitat, which can add up in terms of expense. It's important to ensure you have the budget to provide your pet with everything they need to thrive.
If you're passionate about reptiles and looking for a unique and rewarding pet, a lizard could be the perfect choice for you. Do you know how much a leopard gecko weighs? What is the lifespan of an iguana? How do you bond with a bearded dragon? Stay tuned for our guide to beginner lizard pets, where we answer all of these questions and more.
10 Best Lizard Pets For Beginners
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The product is ideal for creating a comfortable living space for leopard geckos with everything they need.
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This product is ideal for creating a comfortable and safe habitat for small amphibians.
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This product is ideal for housing small reptiles and amphibians such as snakes, lizards, turtles, and frogs.
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This product is ideal for creating a comfortable and healthy habitat for small amphibious creatures and reptiles.
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Ideal for storing fish tank and reptile accessories, suitable for aquariums up to 40 gallons and turtle tanks.
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The product is ideal for providing anxiety relief and behavioral training comfort to dogs.
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The product is ideal for keeping aquatic turtles as a pet with proper filtration and heating in a 20-gallon aquarium.
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This product is ideal for eliminating strong pet odor on various surfaces such as carpets, furniture, and indoor/outdoor floors.
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The product is ideal for creating a habitat for turtles, frogs, and hermit crabs with lighting, filter, plants, and rocks.
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Ideal for setting up a small aquarium with LED lighting and built-in filtration system.
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1. Zoo Med Laboratories Szmntl10 Reptihabitat Leopard Gecko Kit, 10 Gallon
The Zoo Med Laboratories Reptihabitat Leopard Gecko Kit is a complete package that includes everything you need to set up a proper habitat for your leopard or African fat-tail gecko. The 10-gallon terrarium has a built-in sliding screen top that allows for proper ventilation and easy access. The terrarium also comes with a combo repti rock food and water dish, which is perfect for feeding and watering your gecko. The analog reptile thermometer is included, which allows you to monitor the temperature of the terrarium to ensure that it is within the proper range for your gecko's health.
The combo mini deep dome lamp fixture included in the kit is designed to provide heat and light for your gecko. The fixture can accommodate up to two bulbs, which means that you can customize the lighting and heating to suit your gecko's needs. The kit also includes a beginner's guide to leopard geckos, which is perfect for first-time owners who are not familiar with the species. The guide provides comprehensive information on the care and maintenance of leopard geckos, which will help you keep your pet healthy and happy.
Overall, the Zoo Med Laboratories Reptihabitat Leopard Gecko Kit is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to keep leopard or African fat-tail geckos as pets. The kit takes the guesswork out of setting up a proper habitat and provides all the necessary equipment and information needed to get started.
- Complete package with all necessary equipment included
- Built-in sliding screen top for proper ventilation and easy access
- Combo repti rock food and water dish included for feeding and watering
- Analog reptile thermometer included for temperature monitoring
- Combo mini deep dome lamp fixture included for heat and light provision
- Beginner's guide to leopard geckos included for first-time owners
- – May not be suitable for experienced owners who already have some of the equipment
2. Acrylic Reptile Habitat Kit – Start Your Adventure!
The 8Pack Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit is the perfect size of 12x9x7 inches, providing a comfortable living space for your pet reptiles. The escape-proof door locks ensure that your pets are safe and secure. The kit includes all the essential equipment and accessories that you need to get started, such as stainless steel long reptile tweezers, a digital dual gauge thermometer hygrometer, a rock hide cave, reptile vines, plastic flexible plant leaves, a large capacity sprayer, and a reptile food water bowl.
This mini terrarium is made with high-quality thick and extremely hard tempered polycarbonate (PC) glass materials, making it durable and safe for your pets. The one-piece design of the terrarium eliminates the need for assembly, and the waterproof bottom allows it to be used as both a desert terrarium and a rainforest tank. The feeding cover at the top makes it easy to feed your pets while preventing escape. The 360-degree view of the terrarium landscape provides an ideal habitat for desert-dwelling animals, while the tough screen top opening provides ventilation and allows UVB and infrared penetration.
The 8Pack Reptile Terrarium Starter Kit is easy to use, with no need for installation. It is guaranteed not to be damaged during transportation or use, and if you have any questions when receiving it, the manufacturer is happy to help.
This terrarium is suitable for a wide range of reptiles, including lizards, tortoises, chameleons, snakes, frogs, spiders, turtles, and hermit crabs. Whether you are breeding or just keeping pets, this terrarium starter kit has everything you need to provide a safe and comfortable living space for your reptiles.
- Escape-proof door locks for added security
- Made with high-quality thick and extremely hard tempered polycarbonate (PC) glass materials for durability and safety
- Kit includes all essential equipment and accessories
- 360-degree view of the terrarium landscape for an ideal habitat for desert-dwelling animals
- Tough screen top opening provides ventilation and allows UVB and infrared penetration
- Suitable for a wide range of reptiles
- – May be too small for larger reptiles
3. Reptile Habitat Kit: Glass Terrarium & Accessories
The 6-Pack Reptile Terrarium Complete Starter Kit is a perfect choice for pet lovers who want to provide a comfortable and safe environment for their pets. The tank size is 12x9x7 inches and it comes with an escape door lock to prevent pets from escaping. The kit includes a compact design mini tank, a cork bark backdrop, a coconut shell hidden cave, a reptile climbing branch, a reptile food water bowl, and stainless steel tweezers for pets' basic needs.
The transparent explosion-proof PC glass of the compact design mini glass container is made of tough and extremely hard tempered polycarbonate (PC) material which is safe and explosion-proof. It provides a 360° panoramic view and can withstand high temperatures up to 120°. The material does not turn yellow even after long-term exposure, and the waterproof bottom makes this water tank suitable for both desert and rainforest environments.
The unique strong suction iron feeding port of the tank makes feeding easy. It has a double insurance of magnet spring, and there is no need to open the cover. Lightly push to feed and it will automatically close to prevent pets from escaping. The security screw lock with the exclusive key also prevents pets from escaping.
The sturdy top metal grille of the tank is resistant to high temperatures, rust, and escape. The reserved wiring holes allow for adding heating lamp equipment, allowing UVB and infrared penetration. The detachable design makes it easy to clean and maintain, and it is stackable to save space.
The tank has plenty of vents on the top and sides to keep fresh air flowing into the habitat for optimal airflow, which is good for your lovely pet to grow. It is widely applicable and suitable for ecological rainforest breeding boxes, amphibian breeding boxes, little lizards, geckos, snakes, tarantulas, frogs, turtles, hermit crabs, anole, bearded dragons, and mantis.
- Comes with a complete starter kit including a mini tank, backdrop, hidden cave, climbing branch, food water bowl, and tweezers
- The transparent explosion-proof PC glass material is safe and explosion-proof and provides a 360° panoramic view
- Easy feeding with the unique strong suction iron feeding port with double insurance of magnet spring
- Sturdy top metal grille is resistant to high temperatures, rust, and escape, and has reserved wiring holes for heating lamp equipment
- Detachable design makes it easy to clean and maintain and it is stackable to save space
- Plenty of vents on the top and sides for optimal airflow
- – None
4. Full-View Turtle Tank With Adjustable Filter
The turtle tank is an ideal habitat for your pet turtle as it is designed with five different functional areas. The big basking platform provides ample space for the turtle to bask in the sun, while the feeding area allows easy feeding. The anti-slip crawler area ensures the turtle's safety, and the removable green planter adds aesthetic appeal. The swimming area is spacious enough for the turtle to enjoy swimming. The dry and wet areas are independently separated, making it easier to maintain a clean environment.
This tank is also animal-friendly as it has a 3-layer separation design. Excrement and food residue will sink into the bottom layer, and the filter and adjustable water pump ensure the turtles swim in clean water at all times. The speed of water flow can be adjusted according to your needs, and the configured 5V1A adapter makes it safer to use. The 5-foot power cord of the pump gives you more options for placing the terrarium.
The BETAZOOER aquarium for tortoise is environmentally friendly as it saves time, energy, and water. You can easily lift the filter layer to pour out dirty water and refill it with clean water. The product comes with a 90-day warranty, which includes a 100% refund or free exchange guarantee. You can contact the manufacturer at any time for any queries or concerns.
Please note that the product comes with a layer of frosted protective film to prevent any wear and tear during transportation. It is recommended to remove the protective film to obtain a transparent visual.
- The turtle tank is designed with five functional areas for the turtle's comfort and safety.
- The 3-layer separation design ensures a clean environment for the turtle.
- The adjustable water filter pump and 5V1A adapter make it easy and safe to use.
- The tank is environmentally friendly, saving time, energy, and water.
- The product comes with a 90-day warranty and a 100% refund or free exchange guarantee.
- – The tank may require frequent cleaning to maintain a clean environment for the turtle.
- – The protective film on the product may be difficult to remove.
5. Metal Fish Tank Stand With Storage Cabinet – Gdlf
Looking for a sturdy and durable fish tank stand that doesn't wobble? Look no further than this fish tank stand made with 4cm thick steel powder-coated legs. This stand is built to last and is moisture-resistant, ensuring it will stand the test of time.
With the capability to hold one large aquarium up to 40 gallons on the top shelf and a smaller aquarium (5-10 gallons) on the bottom shelf, this stand is a versatile option for any fish enthusiast. It's not just for holding tanks, either – this stand also has plenty of storage space for fish accessories like food, nets, gravel cleaners, and water conditioners. You'll love the neat and organized look it provides.
The sleek and modern design of this stand is sure to impress. With black steel legs and a powder-coated finish paired with a brown P2 MDF cabinet, this aquarium stand looks high-end and will match any furniture decor. Please note that tanks aren't included.
This fish tank stand has an overall dimension of 36.6"L x 18.9"W x 31.6"H and can hold up to 40 gallons or 660 pounds. It is suitable for a variety of aquarium or terrarium sizes up to 40 gallons.
- Sturdy and durable construction with 4cm thick steel powder-coated legs
- Moisture-resistant, ensuring it will last long
- Able to hold one large aquarium up to 40 gallons and a smaller aquarium (5-10 gallons) on the bottom shelf
- Plenty of storage space for fish accessories
- Sleek and modern design that matches any furniture decor
- – Tanks aren't included
6. Calming Snuggle Buddy For Anxious Dogs
The Snuggle Puppy is a pet anxiety and comfort aid that has been helping dogs since 1997. It has helped over 1,000,000 dogs and is the original product in this category. It is important to note that there are many knock-offs of this product, so be sure to purchase the original Snuggle Puppy.
The Snuggle Puppy is designed to reduce negative behaviors in dogs, which can help you get more sleep. It is particularly helpful with crate and kennel training as it reduces barking, whining, and anxiety. This helps to soothe your dog and allows you to sleep soundly at night.
The Snuggle Puppy is easy to use and comes with an industry-leading “Real-Feel” heartbeat with 2 modes. It also comes with AAA batteries and a simple to use heat pack. The heat pack provides warmth and comfort to your dog, which can be particularly helpful during colder months.
The materials used in making the Snuggle Puppy are certified safe for human use. This ensures that it is safe for your dog to use and that it is easy to clean and machine washable. You can rest assured that you are providing your dog with a safe and comfortable product.
The Snuggle Puppy comes with a satisfaction guarantee. The company is based in the US, and the customer service is top-notch. If you are not satisfied with the product, you can return it for a full refund. The company stands behind its products 100%.
- Helps to reduce negative behaviors in dogs
- Easy to use with industry-leading “Real-Feel” heartbeat
- Materials used are certified safe for human use
- Comes with a satisfaction guarantee
- – None
7. Tetra Aquatic Turtle Deluxe Kit 20 Gallons, Aquarium With Filter And Heating Lamps, 30 In (Nv33230)
The Complete Aquarium Kit is an ideal choice for those who want to keep aquatic turtles. This 20-gallon tank is designed to provide a comfortable living space for your pets, and it includes all the essentials needed for success. The kit comes with a decorative filter that keeps water clean with 3-stage filtration and creates a beautiful waterfall. The basking platform and dome lamps incorporated into the screen top provide warmth and prime basking. The kit also includes a boxwood plant mat, Tetra food, and water care product samples, making it convenient for beginners. The aquarium measures 30 inches wide x 12 inches deep x 12 inches tall, providing ample space for your pets to swim comfortably.
The tank is made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. The decorative filter not only keeps the water clean but also adds to the beauty of the tank. The basking platform and dome lamps provide the perfect environment for your pets to bask in warmth and light. The kit also includes everything you need to get started, making it convenient for beginners.
Overall, the Complete Aquarium Kit is an excellent choice for those who want to keep aquatic turtles. With all the essentials included, it provides a comfortable living space for your pets to thrive.
- Includes all the essentials for success
- Decorative filter with 3-stage filtration keeps water clean
- Dome lamps incorporated into the screen top provide warmth and prime basking
- Convenient for beginners with Tetra food and water care product samples included
- Ample space for pets to swim comfortably
- – May not be suitable for larger aquatic turtles
8. Citrus Deodorizer For Stubborn Pet Odors
The Angry Orange pet odor eliminator is a highly effective solution for eliminating strong and persistent smells in your home. This carpet deodorizer targets the source of the odor and quickly destroys it. Derived from fresh orange peels, this carpet cleaner for pets has a pleasant citrus scent that leaves your home smelling fresh and clean.
This urine odor eliminator is ready to use straight out of the bottle, without any need for mixing. It can be used directly on cat pee or dog waste, making it a convenient solution for pet owners. To achieve the best results, simply remove your pets from the area, clean up any excess mess, shake the bottle well, and spray the affected area. Allow the product to dry completely before allowing your pets back in the area.
It is important to note that this product should not be applied directly to your pet, nor should it be used in a diffuser. Cats and birds may be sensitive to concentrated levels of certain ingredients. This pet carpet cleaner can also be used to eliminate odors from tile, couch upholstery, garbage cans, car interiors, and more.
- Effectively eliminates strong and persistent odors
- Pleasant citrus scent derived from fresh orange peels
- Ready to use straight out of the bottle
- Convenient solution for pet owners
- Can be used on a variety of surfaces
- – May not be suitable for use around sensitive pets such as cats and birds
- – May require multiple applications for particularly stubborn odors
9. Turtle Haven Complete Starter Kit
The Baby Turtle Starter Kit is the perfect solution for those looking to keep their pet turtles in a safe and comfortable environment. The kit includes a durable plastic terrarium that is easy to assemble, a UV heating lamp with bulb to provide warmth, and an electric water filter that keeps the swimming area clear and transparent.
The turtle habitat is made from high-quality plastic that is non-toxic, non-irritating, safe, sturdy and non-deformation for use. The bright blue hue adds a touch of color to any room in the house. The aquarium is completely transparent and has a 360° panoramic view that allows for easy observation of your pet without any dead ends.
The kit is designed to simulate the real living environment of reptiles, with multiple functional areas such as basking areas, anti-slip crawler areas, feeding area, breeding hibernation area and swimming area, making it the ideal residence for turtles, hermit crabs, crayfish, fish, and small amphibious creatures. The Tank size (16.5" x 11.5" x 6.3") is perfect for use in the home or classroom to let kids learn about pet care. They can feed the turtles, scrub the tank or change the water, which adds fun while also teaching them how to take care of small animals.
- Durable and safe materials used in the turtle habitat
- Multiple functional areas designed to simulate the real living environment of reptiles
- Completely transparent aquarium with a 360° panoramic view
- Perfect size for use in the home or classroom
- – May not be suitable for larger turtles
- – The included heating lamp may not be sufficient for colder climates
10. Coralife Led Biocube Aquarium Fish Tank Kit, 16 Gallon
Introducing the Biocube Aquarium – the perfect innovative all-inclusive aquarium for all needs. It features a compact and customizable filtration chamber that is already built-in to the back of the aquarium, making it easy to setup and maintain. The aquarium comes with a quiet submersible pump, dual intakes, and adjustable return nozzle, and is compatible with all existing BioCube accessories. Fish, corals, substrate, and décor are sold separately.
The sleek and modern design of the aquarium features a rounded edge, making it a perfect fit for any space. The Biocube Aquarium is equipped with vibrant LED lighting that is capable of sustaining and growing healthy, vibrant corals and live plants. The low-profile hood contains a 24-hour timer which makes it easy to control the three independent light channels for maximum beauty: bright white, sparkling blue, and color enhancing LEDs. The automatic 30-minute sunrise/sunset and 60-minute moonrise/moonset function is incorporated to replicate a natural day/night cycle for your aquatic environment.
Coralife is a trusted brand of marine aquarium parts and supplies. They offer aquarium lighting, filtration products, marine salt mix, and more. When aquarium systems require more than just the basics, Coralife steps in to provide the best quality products for your aquarium needs.
- Easy to setup and maintain
- Compact and customizable filtration chamber
- Quiet submersible pump, dual intakes, and adjustable return nozzle
- Compatible with all existing BioCube accessories
- Sleek and modern design with rounded edges
- Vibrant LED lighting capable of sustaining and growing healthy, vibrant corals and live plants
- 24-hour timer to control three independent light channels
- Automatic 30-minute sunrise/sunset and 60-minute moonrise/moonset function to replicate natural day/night cycle
- Trusted brand of marine aquarium parts and supplies
- – Fish, corals, substrate, and décor are sold separately
Best Lizard Pets For Beginners FAQs
What are some basic care and maintenance tips for first-time lizard owners?
As a first-time lizard owner, it is important to understand that proper care and maintenance is essential for the health and well-being of your pet. Here are a few basic tips to ensure that your lizard stays healthy and happy:
1. Habitat: Lizards require a specific type of environment to thrive. Make sure you set up their habitat with the appropriate substrate, temperature, humidity, and lighting. Do some research to determine the specific needs of your lizard species.
2. Feeding: Lizards are carnivorous, so they require a diet of live insects or small rodents. Make sure you are providing them with a varied diet that is appropriate for their species.
3. Water: Provide your lizard with fresh, clean water at all times. Some lizards also enjoy soaking in shallow water dishes.
4. Handling: Lizards can become stressed if handled too frequently or improperly. Make sure you handle your lizard gently and support its body.
5. Health: Regularly monitor your lizard for signs of illness, such as changes in appetite or behavior. If you suspect your lizard is sick, consult with a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles.
By following these basic care and maintenance tips, you can provide your lizard with a happy and healthy life.
What are the best species of lizards to keep as pets for beginners?
For beginners, the best species of lizards to keep as pets are those that are easy to care for and relatively low maintenance. Some of the popular choices include bearded dragons, leopard geckos, and crested geckos. These species are known for their docile nature and adaptability to captivity.
Bearded dragons are a great choice for beginners due to their calm temperament and hardiness. They are also easy to feed and require minimal attention. Leopard geckos, on the other hand, are low maintenance and do not require any special lighting or heating equipment. They are also easy to handle and do not require a lot of space. Crested geckos are another popular choice, as they are also low maintenance and do not require a lot of space. They are also known for their unique appearance and are great for those who want a more exotic pet.
It is important to do thorough research before getting a pet lizard, as each species has its own specific care requirements. Make sure to provide adequate housing, food, and lighting to ensure a healthy and happy pet. With the right care and attention, lizards can make great pets for beginners.
What are the common health issues that pet lizards may face, and how can they be prevented or treated?
Pet lizards are fascinating creatures to keep as pets, but like any other animal, they are susceptible to a variety of health issues. Some of the most common health problems that pet lizards may face include metabolic bone disease, respiratory infections, parasites, and gastrointestinal disorders.
Metabolic bone disease is a common problem among lizards and is often caused by a lack of calcium, vitamin D3, and UVB light. It can be prevented by providing your pet lizard with a balanced diet and proper lighting. Respiratory infections, on the other hand, are caused by poor husbandry conditions such as inadequate ventilation, humidity, and temperature. These infections can be prevented by maintaining a clean and well-ventilated enclosure.
Parasites are another common health issue that pet lizards may face. These can include mites, ticks, and worms. Parasites can be prevented by keeping your pet lizard's enclosure clean and providing them with proper nutrition. Gastrointestinal disorders such as impaction can be caused by feeding your pet lizard food that is too large or difficult to digest. This can be prevented by providing your pet lizard with the appropriate size and type of food.
In conclusion, the best way to prevent health problems in pet lizards is to provide them with the proper care they need. This includes providing them with a balanced diet, proper lighting, and a clean and well-maintained enclosure. If you suspect that your pet lizard is suffering from a health issue, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible.
What do lizards eat, and how often should they be fed as pets?
Lizards are fascinating pets to have, and they require a specific diet to remain healthy and active. The type of lizard you have will determine its dietary needs, but most lizards consume a diet of live insects, fruits, and vegetables. Some popular insects include crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and roaches. Fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, collard greens, and squash are also good choices.
When it comes to feeding your pet lizard, it's essential to feed them the right amount of food. Depending on the type of lizard you have, feeding frequency may vary. Generally, most lizards should eat every day or every other day. Younger lizards tend to eat more frequently while adults eat less often. You should also ensure that you're not overfeeding your lizard, as obesity can lead to health issues.
In conclusion, feeding your pet lizard a healthy and balanced diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Be sure to research the specific dietary needs of your lizard and feed them according to their age, size, and species. As always, consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet's diet.
What kind of housing and environment do lizards need to thrive as pets?
Lizards can make great pets for reptile enthusiasts, but before bringing one home, it's important to understand their housing and environmental needs to ensure they thrive in captivity. First and foremost, lizards require a properly sized and equipped enclosure. The size of the enclosure will depend on the size of the lizard, but as a general rule, it should be at least one and a half times the length of the lizard. The enclosure should also have a heat source, such as a heat lamp or heat pad, to create a basking spot for the lizard to regulate their body temperature.
In terms of environment, lizards need a variety of substrates, such as sand or coconut fiber, to mimic their natural habitat. They also require hiding places, such as rocks or logs, to feel secure and prevent stress. Additionally, lizards require natural UVB lighting to help with calcium absorption, which is crucial for their bone health.
Lastly, it's important to keep the enclosure clean and well-maintained to prevent the buildup of harmful bacteria or parasites. By providing the proper housing and environment, lizards can thrive as pets and bring joy to their owners for years to come.