Sunlovers
Pictures of reptiles basking in the sun remind us that heat is vital to their survival. As ectotherms, they can’t produce their own body heat and rely on heat from external sources. In the wild, that’s usually the sun, but for pets it’s an artificial heat source. As a reptile owner, you have to provide the right heat source for your pet’s health. While there are various supplies on the market, such as heat rocks and heat pads, we recommend basking spotlights.
Basking Spotlights
These lights provide a more natural heat source for reptiles. A spotlight can create a basking site or “hot spot” that your reptile can move in and out of. These hot spots help reptiles digest food and fight off disease. Basking lights also mimic a reptile’s natural heating method, since reptiles heat their bodies from top to bottom, not bottom to top, as used by heat rocks or pads. They are also more suited to a reptile’s heat receptors, which are quite deep in the skin. Unlike humans, reptiles don’t feel heat immediately on their skin. They may get third-degree burns from a heat rock before actually feeling the burning sensation. Keep your reptile warm and healthy with basking lights and other reptile-care supplies at Pet Supermarket.
Lights for Lizards
Lizards, especially vegetarian species, require natural sunlight in order to process nutrients and absorb calcium from their diets. Much like humans, lizards can develop bone disease from lack of calcium. Calcium supplements for lizards are available to help prevent this problem.
Natural or UV Bulbs
Full spectrum UV bulbs simulate the different degrees of natural sunlight, but nothing can duplicate the real thing. Whenever possible, place your lizard’s habitat in a location that allows access to natural sunlight. Just make sure he has some shade, and don’t allow the temperature to reach extremes. Since full spectrum UV bulbs are a necessity for lizards, it’s important to keep them maintained regularly. Bulbs should be replaced every six months to a year to ensure that they’re providing the proper spectrums of light. The knowledgeable associates at Pet Supermarket can help you with everything you’ll need for a safe and healthy lizard habitat.
Skin, Scale, and Shell Health
Whether your reptile sheds its skin or lives in its shell, you’ll need to keep an eye on the health of its “armor.” Reptiles are prone to mites, which can cause your reptile to become anemic. Reptiles such as snakes can also have difficulty shedding their skins at times. When old skin is left behind, be sure to remove it. Turtles can develop a condition known as soft shell, where the edges of your turtle’s shell become soft and bendable. This condition is caused by a vitamin D deficiency. To correct it, make sure you provide sufficient access to sunlight or a full spectrum light in their cage.
Remember: Pet Supermarket has everything your reptile needs to stay healthy and happy. Come in and find out more about your reptile’s special needs!
