Daily Exercise
Just as with humans, herptiles need daily activity to remain healthy. For amphibians and some reptiles, this means swimming. For terrestrial animals, physical activity includes climbing and hunting. Your pet’s enclosure should allow it enough space to move around comfortably. Including branches, perches, shelves and/or caves allow herptiles to do what comes naturally to them. Depending on the species, your pet may be more or less active immediately after eating. Learn more about your specific choice to understand the level of activity that is normal.
Lethargy in any animal can be sign of illness or stress. If you observe lethargy, contact your veterinarian. In some cases, reptiles may become a little more lethargic right before they shed their skins.
Mental Stimulation
Different animals in the reptile family have varying needs for socializing and contact. But nearly every animal benefits from daily mental stimulation. This can be accomplished through contact with other animals or humans. It can also be created by providing the space for your pet to climb, burrow or swim. Herptiles like watching the world around them. With a glassed enclosed area at about chest height, your pet can watch activities in the room. Many owners place their cages or enclosures with a view out a window to provide visual stimulation when their pets are home alone. Plan on spending some time engaging with your pet every day for its physical and mental well-being, as well as to keep tabs on its health.