Introduction
Reptiles aren’t the first thing that pops in mind when we think of pets. So, it’s very natural to have little knowledge of their habitats or diet. But any pet owners will tell you this information is critical.
So, the question is what to feed them.
Now, you have to consider the fact that a lot of animals fall under the reptile category. From tortoises to snakes, there are many different animals under this reptilian category.
While coming up with a specific diet for each kind of reptile is complicated, we have narrowed down the key steps to building a diet for all the reptiles.
If there is one article you should read about the reptile diet, this is it. So, read on to find out more.
Reptile’s Food Habit
Before we plan a diet for a pet reptile, we need to find out what reptiles eat?. As mentioned before, many animals fall under the reptile kingdom.
So, they tend to have different preferences when it comes to food. Some tortoises, iguana, chuckwalla, and other reptiles are herbivores, which means they’ll stick to green foods.
While the others, like snakes and crocodiles, tend to feed on animals of the other kingdom. And some big reptiles even feast on the smaller reptiles.
On the other hand, reptiles like chameleons, leopard geckos, and other critters feed on insects like hornworms. Now, there are some hornworms for sale so you can buy them. That’s not an issue.
All kinds of food are available on the market. So, there’s no need to stress out too much. However, you do need to figure out a way to create the diet. And we’ll show you how to do this in the right way.
Reptile Diet Plan in 4 Easy Steps
Not everyone can take up the responsibility of a reptile primarily because of their strict food habit.
Well, there’s this other thing about some reptiles being able to destroy your house. But hey, you can fix the house yourself. However, you might need some help in coming up with the right food plan for your pet.
And that’s what we’ll look into now-
Step 1- Estimate the Amount of Food to Feed
Firstly, you have to take a moment to think about how much food you should be feeding. You see, proving the reptiles with too much food will make them too fat.
While on the other hand, an insufficient amount of food will starve them. So, it’s essential to strike a balance.
Besides, feeding the reptiles too much food can burn a hole in your pocket. Unless you have a brilliant way to earn cash, this would be a complete waste.
Now, how will you know how much food to give?
Well, the trick is to pay heed to their bodyweight. You see, reptiles tend to eat 1-4% of their total body weight. However, size also plays a role in this scenario.
Larger reptiles will eat around 1-2% of their body weight. In contrast, the smaller ones will eat 3-4% of their total body weight.
Step 2- Tailor the Diet According to The Pet
Once you know how much to feed, you need to figure out what to feed your reptile. You see, each animal has a different fondness for food.
The wisest thing to do in this case is to contact an animal dietician. They’re experts who will be able to tell you exactly what to feed your beloved pet.
However, the most common reptile pets include leopard geckos, corn snakes, bearded dragons, African sulcata tortoise, and ball pythons.
And the majority of them love to devour insects, mollusks, birds, frogs, mammals, fish, or even other reptiles. So, get ready for some new food items in your house if you’re planning on keeping a reptile as a pet.
Step 3- Provide Enough Nutrition for The Food
Thirdly, it’s important to balance the nutrition of the food you give to your pets. Much like humans, reptiles and other animals require a naturally balanced diet for optimal health.
So, you have to mix and match food and provide them with all the nutrients needed to survive. Don’t simply give them one type of food all the time.
Instead, switch it up from time to time. You see, animals get bored of the same food if you feed them that every day. So, add a bit of variation to your shopping list.
Step 4- Change the Food Amount for Different Weather
Lastly, you should consider the weather when making a diet for the reptile. Yep, the weather does make an impact on the volume of their food intake.
For instance, feed the reptiles daily during the summer. They need food to stay energized during the hot days of the summer.
However, in the winter, reptiles tend to go through a brumation dormant period. It’s a type of hibernation, so they don’t really require much food. They might not even eat for weeks.
So, don’t get too stressed if that happens. Just ensure you feed them 3 to 4 times a week and don’t offer food too often. It tends to irritate them.
To Sum Up
Well, that’s all you have to do to build your reptile’s diet. Sounds easy, right? The trick is to balance everything in the right amount and feed the pet on time and according to the season.
Plus, don’t worry. No one has it figured all out right from the start of reptile pet ownership. Simply try, and you’ll get the hang of it. It’s not rocket science, you know. Anyway, best of luck and adios!
