The Basics of Reptile Nutrition

Reptile Nutrition: What You Need to Know to Keep a Healthy Pet

Reptiles are some of the most popular and exotic pets a person can own. Periodically, reptile owners need to provide nutrition to their pets to keep them healthy. This article will provide an overview of the basics of how to feed a reptile.

Understand Your Reptile

The first step in providing nutrition to your reptile is understanding what it is and what it needs. Know what species of reptile you have and what its native habitat or diet is. Research what foods are beneficial to its health and have a general understanding of its natural diet. Also, know what supplements your reptile needs to stay healthy.

Variety is the Spice

Variety in your reptile’s diet is key to ensure that it is getting a full range of necessary vitamins and minerals. Insects like crickets, mealworms, and wax worms should form the foundation of its diet. Variety can be achieved by varying the types of these bugs fed, as well as the fruits and vegetables provided as occasional treats. Live food should be offered on a regular basis, as its movement stimulates the reptile’s hunting and feeding behaviors and provides the exercise needed to maintain their health.

Create a Balanced Diet

Ensuring your reptile has a balanced diet and receives the vitamins and minerals it needs is essential. You can provide complete nutrition to your reptile by providing a commercial diet supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Whenever possible, buy feeder insects that contain a variety of nutrient-rich vegetables to mix into the diet. Doing so will help make sure your reptile receives the necessary Balances of nutrients it needs to stay healthy.

Supplementation

Your reptile's diet should also include appropriate minerals and vitamins. Include calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D in your reptile's diet. A calcium supplement should be provided every other day, and vitamins should be provided once or twice a week. The supplement dose should be balanced to your reptile’s age, size, and activity level.

General Dos and Don’ts

When feeding a reptile, it is important to adhere to some general rules. Do not feed your reptile any food that it cannot chew or swallow. This can include items like pieces of string, newspapers, and paper. When providing fruits and vegetables, avoid products that contain calcium, such as lettuce and spinach; these can interfere with the reptile’s ability to absorb calcium. Do not feed your reptile fruits or vegetables that are moldy or rotten. Never feed your reptile wild insects, as they may contain parasites or toxins.

Provide the Best Nutrition for Your Reptile

Reptile nutrition does not have to be rocket science. If you follow the some basic guidelines such as variety, balance, and supplementation, you can ensure that your reptile receives the nutrition it needs. Do your research, understand your reptile, and provide a diet that meets its needs. With these simple steps, you will be able to keep a healthy and happy pet.