How to Make a Reptile Terrarium Cage

Keeping reptiles is a great alternative to larger animals like cats or dogs. Reptiles do not require nearly as much maintenance and can be kept in a terrarium cage. Here's how to make a basic terrarium that will be a great house for your reptile.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium w/ screen top Substrate (sand, wood chips, shredded paper) Heat lamp Water dish Food dish Sticks &bark Box/cave home
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine what size aquarium you need. For small reptiles, like geckos and anoles, a 10-gallon aquarium will do. For larger reptiles that like to climb, such as iguanas, a 20" x 20" x 20" aquarium is ideal.

    • 2

      Place your substrate in the bottom of the aquarium (see tips below on how to choose substrate).

    • 3

      Add your reptile's food and water dishes inside the terrarium. Keep the water away from direct heat (it should not be placed under the heat lamp).

    • 4

      Place your reptile's box or cave home in a corner of the terrarium. It should not be directly under the heat lamp either.

    • 5

      Add sticks and bark throughout the terrarium so your reptile has something to climb on, or at least his home has the look and feel of a natural setting.

    • 6

      Place your reptile inside the terrarium. Attach the screen lid on the top of the terrarium and place your heat lamp.