Exotic Pet Care Guides

Most common exotic pets are legal in the UK without a licence. Legal species include bearded dragons, leopard geckos, corn snakes, ball pythons, budgerigars, cockatiels, chinchillas, guinea pigs, and ferrets. Some species require a Dangerous Wild Animals (DWA) licence (e.g., venomous snakes, primates). Certain species are banned under Invasive Alien Species (IAS) regulations (e.g., red-eared slider turtles). Always check current DEFRA legislation before acquiring any exotic pet.

UK homes are much cooler than Australia (bearded dragons' native habitat), so proper heating is essential year-round. Maintain basking spot at 40-42°C, warm side 32-35°C, cool side 24-26°C. Provide 10-12% UVB lighting 12-14 hours daily (essential for calcium absorption). Feed juveniles 80% insects/20% veg; adults 20% insects/80% veg. Use multiple thermometers to monitor temperatures. Replace UVB bulbs every 6-12 months. Most UK exotic vets treat bearded dragons.

Diet varies by species. Budgerigars and cockatiels thrive on high-quality seed mixes or pellets, supplemented with fresh vegetables (kale, broccoli, carrots) and occasional fruit. Avoid avocado, chocolate, salt, and caffeine (toxic to birds). Provide cuttlefish bone for calcium. Fresh water daily. Larger parrots need more varied diets including nuts and legumes. All UK exotic bird species should have species-specific pellets as base diet. Consult an avian vet for species-specific feeding plans.

Annual health checks are recommended for all exotic pets, even if they appear healthy. Reptiles and birds are prey animals that hide illness until advanced stages. Early detection through annual exams prevents serious issues. Register with an RCVS exotic vet BEFORE you need emergency care. New exotic pets should be examined within 48 hours of acquisition to check for parasites, malnutrition, or underlying conditions. Older pets (last 25% of lifespan) benefit from twice-yearly checkups.