12 Pros And Cons Of Keeping A Tegu Lizard As A Pet

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

tegu
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Tegu lizards are becoming increasingly popular as exotic pets due to their intelligence, affectionate nature, and unique characteristics. However, owning a Tegu comes with a mix of advantages and challenges. While they can form strong bonds with their owners and are relatively easy to care for, there are specific considerations that potential owners must be aware of. Let’s explore 12 important pros and cons of keeping a Tegu lizard as a pet to help you determine if this fascinating reptile is the right fit for you.

1. Intelligent And Affectionate Companions

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Tegu lizards are often hailed as one of the most intelligent reptile species. Unlike many other reptiles, Tegus can recognize their owners, which makes them more interactive. They are curious by nature and will often show interest in what you’re doing, making them fun to observe. If you spend time with them, they can even become quite affectionate, often enjoying sunbathing with their humans or lounging around the house like a cat. Their social and somewhat friendly demeanor makes them a unique choice if you’re looking for a pet that shows more personality than the average reptile.

2. Can Be Aggressive Without Proper Handling

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Tegus are not always as tame as you might expect. While they are generally calm, they can become aggressive, especially if they feel threatened or are not handled properly. If not socialized early, they may show defensive behaviors and bite when stressed. Their teeth are sharp, and a bite can be quite painful, potentially drawing blood. Proper handling and a lot of patience are needed to prevent this aggression. If you’re new to reptiles, this might be a challenge and can make them less suitable for first-time pet owners.

3. Easy To Care For With The Right Diet

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One of the major advantages of owning a Tegu is how relatively easy they are to care for, especially when it comes to their diet. Unlike other reptiles that may require very specialized food, Tegus have a more flexible and forgiving eating schedule. Their diet primarily consists of about one-third animal products, such as worms, eggs, and ground turkey, and two-thirds plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, and greens. Tegus are resilient to minor diet mistakes as long as they receive a balanced variety, making them easier to care for for busy owners.

4. Need A Large Enclosure

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Tegus grow large, with some species reaching up to 4 feet long, requiring a spacious enclosure to thrive. A small tank or cage won’t suffice; you’ll need a large, secure habitat that allows your Tegu to move freely. This setup demands substantial space and investment in time, money, and effort for proper care. If you live in a small apartment or lack the space for a large setup, owning a Tegu could be a challenge. Without a suitable enclosure, their health and happiness may be compromised, making it important to consider your living situation.

5. Long Lifespan

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Tegus are an excellent option for those seeking a long-term pet. With proper care, they can live for up to 20 years, which means they offer years of companionship. Their extended lifespan allows for a stronger bond to form between pet and owner, making them a great choice for people who are ready to commit. Unlike pets that live for just a few years, a Tegu’s longevity provides an opportunity for deep emotional connections, and you’ll have a reliable companion for many years to come with consistent care.

6. Requires Warm Living Conditions

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As cold-blooded creatures, Tegus need warm temperatures to thrive. If your home is not naturally warm, you’ll need to invest in heating equipment to regulate their environment. A basking area of up to 100°F is essential for their health, while cooler zones for retreat are also necessary. Without proper heating, your Tegu may become lethargic or suffer from health issues. For owners in cooler climates, or those who are not prepared to manage their heating setup, this extra responsibility could be a deal-breaker in keeping a Tegu as a pet.

7. Low Risk Of Nutritional Deficiencies

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Tegus are generally less prone to nutritional deficiencies compared to other reptiles. Their diet is flexible, consisting of fruits, vegetables, meats, and eggs, providing a wide range of nutrients. Unlike some reptiles that require strict and complicated diets, Tegus are forgiving when it comes to food. As long as you offer a balanced diet, your Tegu is likely to remain healthy without the worry of specific dietary needs. This makes them easier to care for and less demanding in terms of nutritional requirements, making them a great choice for first-time reptile owners.

8. Not Suitable For Young Children

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Tegus are not ideal pets for young children, primarily due to their size and strength. They can be difficult to handle and may exhibit aggression if not properly socialized. Their large size and potential for defensive behavior make them a challenge for children who may not have the experience to handle them safely. Accidents like bites or injuries could occur if they are mishandled. As such, Tegus are better suited for responsible adults or older children who can properly care for and interact with them in a safe and controlled manner.

9. Easy To Bond With

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Unlike many other reptiles, Tegus can form deep bonds with their owners. They are known for their affectionate behavior and can become attached, often following their owners around or resting beside them. This level of companionship is uncommon among reptiles, which tend to be more independent. If you’re looking for a pet with whom you can develop a meaningful relationship, a Tegu might be a perfect fit. Their social and interactive nature makes them an appealing choice for those seeking more than just a passive reptile experience.

10. Tegus Enjoy Sunbathing And Outdoor Exploration

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Tegus are known to enjoy basking in the sun, much like cats. They have a natural inclination to seek out warmth and light, so if you have a safe outdoor space, your Tegu may love spending time in the sun. Many owners let their Tegus roam their yard while being supervised, which helps them exercise and satisfy their curiosity. Providing these outdoor opportunities can enhance their well-being and give them a more enriched environment, but always ensure that they are in a secure area to avoid escapes.

11. Not Ideal For Households With Small Pets

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Tegus are natural predators and should never be trusted around small animals, including hamsters, gerbils, rabbits, or even birds. If you have these smaller pets, it’s essential to keep them in separate, secure areas when your Tegu is out and about. Tegus, driven by their strong hunting instincts, are likely to see these smaller animals as prey, and even a brief unsupervised interaction could lead to harm or stress for the smaller pet. Their powerful jaws, sharp teeth, and size make them a threat to smaller pets, requiring extra vigilance in multi-pet households.

12. Infrequent Grooming And Maintenance

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Unlike many reptiles that require regular shedding and complex grooming, Tegus have minimal grooming needs. Their scales shed naturally, and they do not need frequent bathing or care beyond their regular feeding and enclosure cleaning. This makes them a low-maintenance option for pet owners who may not have the time for a pet that requires constant attention. However, their living environment should still be kept clean, and they do need a suitable enclosure to ensure they are comfortable and healthy.

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