Specific needs
- A temperature gradient and UVB, depending on the species
- A species-specific diet (insectivorous, herbivorous…)
- A vivarium suited to their adult size
Feeding
- A diet suited to the species
- Calcium and vitamin supplements if needed
- Good-quality prey and plants
Habitat & environment
- A basking spot and a cool zone, plus UVB
- Suitable humidity and hiding places
- A safe substrate
Prevention
- Check the vivarium’s parameters
- Keep an eye on appetite, skin (shedding) and activity
- A veterinary opinion if anything seems wrong
Vaccination
There is no vaccination for lizards. Prevention depends above all on a correct vivarium (heat/UVB) and a correct diet.
Warning signs — see a vet if you notice:
- Difficult shedding, necrotic toes or tail
- Deformed limbs (calcium deficiency)
- Refusing to eat, apathy
When to see a vet?
- See the vet in case of deformity, problem shedding or loss of appetite
- An unsuitable environment should be corrected quickly
At the AuFuret practice
- Exotic pet and reptile medicine
- Imaging and laboratory
- Husbandry and environment advice
Dr Danielle Frei Perrin regularly appears as a veterinary expert on Swiss public broadcasting (RTS) and in leading French-speaking Swiss media.
