The Pros and Cons of Reptiles as Pets

By Makayla F.

What are the Pros and cons of reptiles as pets? Not sure if a Reptile is the right pet for your family? As with any pet research is key. Make sure you understand the needs of the pet and if you can provide those. Here are some Pros and cons to help you in your decision.

Pros:

First let’s start with the Pros.  Below are all the reasons why reptiles make great pets!

• No loud noises. Most reptiles communicate with body language making them a pretty quiet pet.
• No training needed. With cats and dogs especially dogs you will most likely need to train them but with reptiles you do not need to train them.
• No fur. If you are someone who hates having to clean up pet fur or you are allergic a pet reptile might be just right.
• You can get fresh air. Reptiles are in cages most of the time unless you do choose to take them out for a bit but other then that you will get no bad odors or stinky litter boxes!
• You don’t have to worry about anything in your house getting damaged! Since reptiles are in cages you don’t have to worry about your shoes being ripped into or your couch!!

Cons:

And now, the Cons: these would be reasons why a reptile pet might not be suited to you or your home.

• The habitat and/or cage they live in will require special care and maintenance.
• Most of them do eat live food. If insects and small rodents creep you out, this may be an issue for you.
• Reptiles are known to be very docile.
• You will need space for your reptiles cage. 
• Some reptiles can be aggressive. If you do get an aggressive reptile they can be hard to deal with.

Conclusion:

If you do choose to get a reptile please make sure you have everything you need and have done all your research. Make sure you ask the pet store staff or breeder about stuff you need. What is required, the reptiles diet, etc. to make sure you are set to give the reptile a nice loving home!! Zara who owns Cat Sitter Toronto Inc. has two lovely Bearded Dragons and says they add joy to her home like any other pet.

Resources:

https://americanvethospital.com/6-key-benefits-reptile-pets/

https://www.allcreaturesvetcare.com/owning-a-reptile-the-pros-and-cons-part-2/

https://www.lizards101.com/pros-cons-owning-various-lizards/