Iguanas are one of the most popular pets in the lizard family and it is easy to see why. These are creatures that enjoy your attention, can roam freely in the house, and are generally healthy with the right kind of care. Even though iguanas require little veterinarian attention, when it comes to pet health, it is always your responsibility as the owner to make sure your lizard is healthy. Here are four health indicators every iguana owner should know.

1. Appetite - A healthy iguana is a hungry iguana. These lizards love to eat and should be eating throughout the day. Offer your iguana food several times a day and make sure you are offering a healthy variation, such as green leafy vegetables and fruits. Pay close attention to his appetite and offer food everyday in spite of his age. If your iguana refuses to eat, there is a pretty good chance that something is wrong.

2. Color - Baby iguanas are brightly colored creatures that will usually show brilliant shades of green and blue. However, as the iguana ages, it can turn different colors, such as gray, brown, or even orange, and this is a normal change. If you notice your iguana looking dark gray, brown, or black, or yellow, this is considered a sign of either physical or emotional stress and your pet should be taken for an exam.

3. Attitude - As you spend time with your iguana, you will learn his personality. You will be able to tell when attention is wanted or when you should get out the food by the way the iguana reacts to you. If there is a health issue with your iguana, you will also see a change in its behavior. Your iguana may show signs of aggression or social withdrawal, which could indicate they are not feeling well or they are in pain.

4. Touch Temperature - Iguanas are cold-blooded creatures, and you will recognize quickly that their skin temperature will usually reflect the temperature of their environment. While basking under their heat light, the skin will be warm to the touch and when it is cool, the skin will get cooler. If you notice a variance in this reaction, your pet's health could be endanger and you should seek vet care.

When you take an iguana as a pet, you have to ensure that you educate yourself about the indications that will be present when something is wrong. Talk to a veterinarian, like those at Elizabethton Veterinary Clinic, about exotic pet care and any questions you have about the well-being of your iguana.