Yes, folks, lizards do get bored. They also have moods and get depressed. I’ve seen it many times. One example of a depressed lizard is when I left the country for 2 weeks. Lil’ Murph nearly stopped eating and pooing altogether, he became lethargic, and worried his caretakers. Four people were seeing to his well-being & keeping logs, so they were all informed as to when Murph did what.
The reason for this was if too much time lapsed in persuading him to eat, or if he would not poo, causing a concern for impaction, these care-takers (or Murph-sitters) could ‘draw straws’ to determine who would call me with concerning news before contacting his exotic animal veterinarian. (*note: it isn’t strictly the consumption of substrate which may cause it.)
It took quite some time upon my arrival home for Murph to become his happy self again. Reptiles can and will love (in their own way) the humans that love them. They are far more intelligent than many people would assume due to not having witnessed the proof.
You too can see the proof pertaining to reptilian moods. Have you been to an awful pet store and actually looked into the eyes of some reptiles, frogs, snakes, or any being, just lying there?
If it’s not night time, when lizards would be sleepy, and if they are not in brumation, they should not look like that. They are in a prison with no love, no freedom, and no change of scenery.
That’s why it’s important to pluck them from their imprisonments to enjoy the warm sunlight with you, while diligently remaining their protector. This is good for their physical and mental well-being.
My lizards have been my companions as I do dishes and other chores. I make sure they do not stray far. I have placed them on a cushion at the opened, but screened window next to me while I toil (I set a sturdy prop under windows for extra security – maybe I’m overly protective, but if a window gave way in it’s track, that would be horrible, awful).
Sometimes a creation with household items to contain them within an area larger than their cage can be constructed. This helps them to get exercise if the weather outside is too harsh. Such also protects them from going where they should not.
If a dangerous pet, children or clumsy adults are around, don’t let your scaly darlings out of their cages – for their safety. Some daily time with their families is important. It is however, vital to remember that they need a minimum of hours of exposure to special heating and lighting (an informative post about that) and/or proper exposure to the sun’s rays every day.
Change a bored lizard’s scenery:
Lil’ Murph (shown above) has an enclosure with a view. He watches birds at the feeder & cars drive by. When the weather is pleasant, the window is opened for him. The enclosure that is now his is not glass (he gets his heating & lighting needs – but more on that later) this allows for sun exposure or the enjoyment of a breeze.
Ever seen a cat or other creature’s intrigue about the room that has just been redecorated? You can… yes, I am about to throw it out there… redecorate your scaly friend’s place for them!!
Make sure, if she/he/they have any favorite items, such as a hammock, perch, blankie, or whatever, you leave them in there. Keep in mind the design possibilities, in that they are not too close or far from the heating and lighting sources.
Your lizard has preferences too, and you will both be aware what they are after a couple of days. Your lizard will appreciate the change, be visibly annoyed by it, or appear to accept it. : )
I cannot stress this enough. In regards to the moods of lizards, more explicitly depressed lizards in pet stores and the mills that supply the pet stores, please click on our post links below to watch these videos & know what’s really going on in the world. This is not common knowledge. The Cruelty To Reptiles and If We Love Animals, We Must Not Support The People Behind The Animal Mills.
People can adopt reptiles that need a family. It’s similar to visiting a humane society to find a furry friend. Just as we can give a good life to a cat or dog that is residing in a shelter (often for a short time before it’s euthanized), you can choose (won’t be easy) the special reptile(s) or other exotic animal(s) whose lives you will make better.
Internet search engines can be helpful in finding such facilities. Hopefully, there is a location near you. If assistance may be helpful, please contact Lizardplanet.com via the ‘Contact’ page.
Bedding in lieu of substrate: it may not be perfect for lizards and will not work for everyone but it is my way, and Murph is happy with it.
This mirror adds an open-ness to Murph’s enclosure. This mirror belonged to his sister(?) Copper, whom he never met. My lizards need to see how beautiful they are. He hasn’t quite figured it out….Often he’ll attempt to eat the food he sees in the mirror!!! THAT does not cease to be adorable!!
