Like most reptiles, your lizard drinks little. Nevertheless, the presence of water in its terrarium is essential in more ways than one. How to integrate water into your living space? Why does a lizard need water? What is it for if not to hydrate? We answer all these questions.
Your lizard needs water to run its body. Water must never leave your body, otherwise all of your vital organs will be damaged.
Water to hydrate
He may not drink heavily, but your lizard should benefit from a small container to hydrate regularly. You may never see him stick his head in it, and yet, rest assured, he drinks well. As such, we recommend a small bowl of water and not a large container like you can put snakes. Indeed, your reptile could drown inside.
Water for bathing
Your lizard may need to bathe in its water bowl. However, as we have explained to you, it should not be too deep to prevent it from drowning. Above all, the water must be renewed daily. Indeed, by diving into it, your reptile will be tempted to relieve itself inside. Worse, dirty water promotes the appearance and proliferation of bacteria which can subsequently take up residence on their skin or even in their body.
Water for humidity
This is essential data for the good life of your lizard in captivity. The humidity level of its terrarium must be maintained at very specific levels, depending on the species. This offers him satisfactory living conditions, as he could find them in his natural environment. Thus, the water present in its terrarium allows the humidity to regulate itself. It often varies between 50 and 80%. Water can be placed near the heat source to promote evaporation. You can, in addition, water the plants present inside its habitat.
Beware of dehydration
If your lizard is exposed to a heat source for too long, it could suffer from dehydration. You will then observe an amorphous animal. Taking it in your hands, you will feel its warmth. It should then be immersed in fresh water and avoid exposing it to other sources of heat. Do not hesitate to take him to your veterinarian, who will be best able to treat him.
Also read: What does a lizard eat?
In summary
Your lizard needs water to live. It allows him to hydrate but also to regulate the humidity of his terrarium. The water, present in a small basin, offers him the leisure to bathe. Be careful, the depth should not be too great.
