Care guide
Caring for lizards
Bearded dragons, blue-tongued skinks, uromastyx and chameleons each need a large enclosure with strong heat and UVB lighting, and a diet of insects, greens or both.
Space, heat and light
An adult bearded dragon needs an enclosure of at least about 120 × 60 × 60 cm. Larger lizards such as tegus and iguanas need room-sized enclosures as adults.
Strong UVB lighting and a hot basking spot are essential for most lizards. Chameleons need a tall, well-ventilated screen enclosure with live plants and drip water; they don't drink from bowls.
Diet
Young bearded dragons eat mostly insects, adults mostly greens. Uromastyx and iguanas are plant-eaters. Dust insects with calcium, and avoid spinach and iceberg lettuce as staples.
Health
Soft or bent limbs, twitching and a soft jaw are signs of metabolic bone disease from too little UVB or calcium; see a vet promptly. Ask bearded dragon breeders whether they test for adenovirus.
Local rules
Florida prohibits green iguanas and tegus as new pets. Check your local rules for large lizards.
Further reading
General information to help you prepare, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different: ask an experienced vet about yours. Reviewed by PerfectPal on October 14, 2026.