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Reptile Cage Terrarium Set Up

Choosing and setting up your reptile's home is one of the most important things you can do to ensure his good health. Here's what you need to know about Reptile Cage and Terrarium Set Up.

Getting the New Place Ready

Get your new reptile pet's home ready before you go out and buy the pet. The home you choose will depend on the size and environmental needs of the particular species you're adopting. Climbers do best in tall, narrow cages where a branch can be placed for his climbing adventures. Low, wide cages are best for ground dwelling animals such as tortoises. Your reptile friend will be fine in a standard glass fish aquarium or you can spring for a wood-framed cage with glass inserts. When choosing your pet's home, consider how large your pet is and how large he's likely to grow. The cage must also be escape proof. Some reptiles are little scaled Houdinis.

Some reptiles require an aquatic environment with a place for your pet to come out of the water and bask. This can be achieved with a sloping layer of gravel on the bottom of the tank or a rock protruding from the water. A natural-looking background will make your pet feel more secure and, well, it just looks nice.

Most reptiles will do best in a desert terrarium. Use sand or terrarium carpet for the substrate and include only drought-tolerant plants such as cactus and succulents. A heat source with a thermal gradient is essential. Some reptiles have very specific lighting needs so be sure to research exactly what your pet requires.

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