API Reptile

Reptile Enclosure Setup: Create a Thriving Habitat for Your Pet

Learn how to setup your reptiles terrarium to ensure your reptile lives a wholesome & happy life. Shop at your local Petco for all reptile terrarium needs.

Updated on October 23rd, 2025

Reptile Feeding: Live Insect Selection & Care for Optimal Health

Learn about live insects for reptile feeding, recommended diet & habitat setup. Find the right food, supplies & equipment at your neighborhood Petco.

Updated on April 9th, 2026

Reptile UVB Lighting: Help Your Pet Thrive with the Right Lamp

Learn the importance of UVB light for your reptiles and the right reptile lights for your pet’s habitat.

Updated on March 30th, 2026

Optimal Reptile Diet: Feed Your Pet for Peak Health & Vitality

Do you have questions about what to feed a reptile? Petco has the answers! Visit us to learn about reptile dietary needs.

Updated on October 23rd, 2025

Is a Reptile Right for You? Essential Questions Before You Buy

Explore our tips about what to keep in mind when choosing the right pet reptile for your family. Consider what they need to stay happy and healthy.

Updated on October 23rd, 2025

Can I overdose my African dwarf frog using too much ReptiSafe?

You would need to use an excessive amount in order to "overdose" most reptiles or amphibians. As long as you follow label directions, you should be fine. ReptiSafe is an excellent product. (This is my own opinion which comes from personal use)

My reptile won't eat, has nose rub. Is it stress or enclosure issues?

Use a background to block his view. This may prevent glass surfing or nose rubbing as well as provide more privacy/security. Again, check the temps in his enclosure to make sure it is species appropriate. Offer a variety of crickets, mealworms, dubia roaches, silkworms and wax worms. Gut load prey for 24 hours prior to offering. Dust appropriately with vitamins and minerals regularly. He may also benefit from a soak in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. If his appetite does not return after adjustments to environment and diet, have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites or bacterial overgrowth.

My reptile is neglecting food and treats. When should I be concerned?

Check the temperature an dlighting. Low temps can affect appetite and digestion in reptiles. Offer a biologically appropriate diet. This can include a commercial pelleted or stick diet, and being omnivorous, should also include insects, fresh fruit and vegetables. See your veterianrian or vet experienced in treating reptiles if she does not regain her appetite.

My baby sulcata tortoise has a runny nose. Should I use Reptaid?

It may provide an immune system boost and could stimulate the appetite which is important in a sick pet. Personally, I think the claims it makes as an "antibiotic" may be a bit thin. You can try it for a day or two, but if you don't see an improvement, have Tart examined by your veterinarian for a definitive diagnosis and an appropriate treatment.

How do I get rid of reptile mites and clean their habitat properly?

You must treat both the environment and the pet. You can try some over the counter products but many can be ineffective if the environment is not treated concurrently. Ivermectin can be dispensed by your veterinarian to use systemically or topically. Do not treat with ivermectin without the advice of your veterinarian as it is quite easy to overdose. A 30 minute soak in a diluted Betadine bath can remove most mites and may soothe irritated skin. Remove the substrate, bag it and take it outdoors. Clean and sanitize the cage, bowls and tank furniture. You can use hot, soapy water followed by a 1:30 dilution of bleach and water followed by a thorough rinsing on the tank, bowls and non porous surfaces. Discard anything that cannot be sanitized. You may need to clean and sanitize the enclosure weekly for several weeks. The pet may need multiple treatments as well.