Monitor Lizard Pet – Complete Care Guide for Exotic Reptile Lovers
Keeping a monitor lizard pet is an adventurous choice that appeals to reptile enthusiasts who love exotic and unique animals. These reptiles are large, powerful, and intelligent, making them fascinating to keep but also demanding in terms of care. Not every reptile keeper is ready for such responsibility, but for those prepared, a monitor lizard can be an extraordinary long-term companion.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about owning a monitor lizard pet—from housing and diet to handling, health, and legal considerations.
Why Choose a Monitor Lizard Pet?
Unlike smaller reptiles, a monitor lizard pet offers a different level of interaction. They are smart, curious, and can even recognize their keepers over time. With lifespans ranging from 10–20 years, these reptiles can stay with you for a long time if properly cared for.
However, monitors are not beginner-friendly pets. They can grow from 3 feet to over 7 feet depending on the species, and they require large enclosures, precise heating, and a diet rich in protein.
Monitor Lizard Pet Housing & Enclosure
A well-structured enclosure is the most important part of monitor lizard care.
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Size Requirements:
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Juveniles: At least a 55-gallon terrarium.
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Adults: A custom-built enclosure of 8ft x 4ft x 4ft or larger.
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Substrate: Coconut fiber, cypress mulch, or organic soil for digging and burrowing.
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Temperature & Lighting:
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Basking Spot: 100–120°F
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Ambient: 80–90°F
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Night: No lower than 75°F
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UVB Lighting: Vital for calcium absorption and bone health.
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Humidity:
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Savannah Monitors: 50–60%
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Nile/Water Monitors: 70–90%
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A large water bowl is essential for soaking and humidity control.
Feeding Your Monitor Lizard Pet
Diet is key to keeping your monitor lizard pet healthy and active. They are carnivores with strong appetites.
Foods to Offer:
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Insects (crickets, roaches, mealworms) for young monitors.
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Rodents (mice, rats) for adults.
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Fish, eggs, and lean meat in moderation.
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Occasional snails or shellfish as treats.
Feeding Schedule:
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Young monitors: Daily.
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Adults: Every 2–3 days.
Always supplement with calcium and vitamin D3, and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.
Handling & Temperament of Monitor Lizard Pets
A monitor lizard pet is not naturally tame, but with regular and careful handling, they can become accustomed to human interaction.
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Handle them from a young age.
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Be consistent but gentle—never grab suddenly.
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Expect strong tails, claws, and bites if they feel threatened.
With patience, some species may tolerate handling and even perch calmly on your arm.
Health & Veterinary Care for Monitor Lizard Pets
Common health issues in monitor lizard pets include:
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Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) – due to lack of UVB or calcium.
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Respiratory Infections – caused by poor enclosure conditions.
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Parasites – especially in wild-caught monitors.
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Obesity – from overfeeding rodents.
Regular checkups with a reptile veterinarian are recommended.
Legal Considerations Before Getting a Monitor Lizard Pet
Laws regarding monitor lizards vary by region. Some species are restricted due to their size and strength. Always:
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Check local regulations.
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Buy from licensed breeders.
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Avoid wild-caught animals to prevent stress and disease.
Pros & Cons of Owning a Monitor Lizard Pet
✅ Pros
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Exotic and fascinating reptile.
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Intelligent and interactive.
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Long lifespan (10–20 years).
❌ Cons
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Require very large enclosures.
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Can be aggressive or defensive.
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Expensive to feed and maintain.
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Not ideal for beginners.
Final Thoughts on Monitor Lizard Pets
Owning a monitor lizard pet is a unique and rewarding experience for advanced reptile keepers. With proper housing, diet, and handling, they can thrive in captivity and become a captivating part of your life. However, they require dedication, space, and knowledge, making them best suited for experienced owners.
If you’re new to reptiles, it’s wise to start with smaller lizards like a Bearded Dragon or Leopard Gecko before moving on to a monitor. But if you’re ready for the challenge, a monitor lizard pet can be the ultimate exotic companion.
FAQs About Monitor Lizard Pets
1. Can you keep a monitor lizard as a pet?
Yes, but a monitor lizard pet requires large enclosures, special heating, UVB lighting, and a proper carnivorous diet. They are best for experienced reptile keepers, not beginners.
2. How big do monitor lizard pets get?
Depending on the species, a monitor lizard can grow anywhere from 3 feet (Savannah Monitor) to over 7 feet (Asian Water Monitor).
3. What do monitor lizard pets eat?
They eat insects, rodents, fish, eggs, and occasionally shellfish. Juveniles eat mostly insects, while adults eat larger prey like mice and rats.
4. Are monitor lizard pets aggressive?
They can be defensive and will bite, scratch, or tail-whip if threatened. With regular handling from a young age, some monitors become more tolerant of human interaction.
5. How long do monitor lizard pets live?
In captivity, a well-cared-for monitor lizard pet can live 10–20 years depending on the species and quality of care.
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