Instructions
Familiarize yourself with the care that a uromastyx requires. Uromastyx lizards are high maintenance pets and you need to be sure that you are up to the task. If for any reason you don't think you'll be able to care for them properly, you should not pick a uromastyx.
Educate yourself about the different types of uromastyx lizards. The most popular types available as pets are the Mali, Egyptian, Moroccan, and Ornate. The Egyptian uromastyx is the largest and can grow up to three feet long. They vary in temperament and coloring as well.
Recognize the differences in the sexes. You can easily tell the sexes of most uromastyx lizards apart by looking at their coloring. Males tend to be more brightly colored. Females require a little extra consideration when it is time for them to lay eggs. You cannot house males together or place their terrariums near each other.
Know what a healthy lizard should look like. They should be alert and active, with wide-open, expressive eyes. Watery eyes on a lizard are an indication of a respiratory infection. Ask if the lizard has had a fecal analysis recently to detect the presence of any parasites. A healthy uromastyx should have a round body, strong, muscular legs and even a little extra fat around the base of the tail. Extra skin that hasn't fully been removed during the shedding process indicates that something may be wrong with the lizard.
Check for any wounds, burns or other injuries to the lizard. Make sure that it moves around freely and naturally. Wounds and sores can lead to infections later and could indicate neglect.
How to Pick Uromastyx Lizards
For those mavericks in the pet world, a dog or cat is not the pet of choice. Perhaps it is a uromastyx lizard they pick, a pet requiring lots of enthusiasm, dedication and education on the part of its owner. Understand how to pick a uromastyx lizard and avoid the common pitfalls of owning this exotic pet.