Cohabitation No Nos

[Reptilian]

Hi all-

I am in the process of updating Reptilian Rescues website and would like to add more pages to it. I want to add one on the downfalls of cohabitation. Here is what I have so far. Is there anything else you guys can help think of?


Premature Pregancy- Male and Female reptiles will breed even if the female is younger than the recommend breeding age. This means your female may be at greater risk for egg impaction or other complications

Unwanted Pregancy- As mentioned a male and female will breed, which can result in distress to the female, complications during pregancy, and unwanted (by the owner) offspring

Spread of Disease thru Fecal Matter and Contact- (What types of diseases can be spread thru fecal matter?) Mites can be passed onto other reptiles by simply jumping to a new host. They can also get onto human clothing and skin and be passed on that way. It it important if you come in contact with a reptile with mites to follow proper procedures to prevent your collection from being infested.

Unnecessary Stress- Most reptiles don't live in a community type systems and are better off on their own, only coming together to breed. Having more than one reptile in an enclosure can cause stress for territory, food, and a mate.