Having a reptile as a pet is not as simple as buying a cage and putting the animal in it. You should do a bit of research to make sure you are prepared to take care of it properly. It is also important you buy it from a reputable seller. Here are some things you need to know and consider before bringing the reptile home.

Food

Not all reptiles for sale eat the same food. Most snakes will do well with mice and rats. Many lizards eat insects, so you will need to find a store that supplies them, usually freeze-dried is best. Bearded dragons eat insects, but also eat fruits and vegetables, and green iguanas are strictly herbivores. If you are going to get a turtle or tortoise, be sure to ask the specific species so you can find out if they are an omnivore or herbivore.

Heat

Reptiles are cold-blooded. Most of them will need some type of heat source in their habitat; this may be a heated rock or a heat lamp. You need to be sure to have the source set to the right temperature for the type and species you are getting. Keep in mind that the temperature may need to be changed throughout the year. In addition to heat, you will need to know what humidity they require and make sure you have that set before putting them in the habitat.

Habitat

A habitat is different from a cage. While you may want to have a cage for times you take your pet with you, a habitat is its home. A cage is a box, be it wire, glass, or plastic, that prevents the reptile from running around the house. A habitat is a cage of some sort that contains all it needs to survive. It is often even decorated in a manner that the reptile finds similar to where it would live in the wild. It should have food, water, shelter, a heat source, and some type of 'landscaping."

Reptiles can be wonderful pets. They may even become attached to you the way a cat or dog would. It will all depend on how much time you spend with it and how you treat it. You should want to take it out to hold, pet, and play with a bit. Of course, be prepared to put it away when company shows up that does not appreciate the wonderful qualities of reptiles.