Water
From UroWiki
As uromastyx come from a naturally dry part of the world, they normally require low humidity levels of less than 40%, although they can survive quite easily in levels up to 60% for a period of time. Studies of wild uromastyx populations have shown that the humidity level in a hide area can be as low as 10%, and generally around 20%. High levels of humidity (60% or more) around the uromastyx can cause respiratory infections and eventual death.
Water bowl
Do not provide a water bowl inside your enclosure, as this can raise humidity to dangerous levels. The uromastyx get all their required water intake from the fresh vegetables they eat, and have no need for (and have not been observed to drink) standing water. Misting is also not recommended.
In some cases, a small dish can be used. The dish should be no bigger than 2 x 2 inches, and the water in it no deeper them 1 cm. The dish should be placed on the cool side of the enclosure to slow its evaporation and decrease its effect on the humidity. This would be needed with cases of dehydration, parasitism, illness causing diarrhea or loss of other body fluids, as precaution to avoid dehydration and impaction when food offered is low in water content, with new possibly wild caught animal of unknown health status, and upon a knowledgeable vet’s recommendation as part of a treatment plan.
Bathing
Some sources recommend bathing your lizard as a means to clean it and to assist shedding. However, you should never bathe your uromastyx, as the water temperature may be too low for your uromastyx' needs; additionally, water can get trapped between the spines of its tail, which can eventually cause tail rot, a thoroughly unpleasant condition.
Baths can be useful, the water MUST be hot to the touch but not scalding. When in doubt use a thermometer. In cases of retained shed with many layers a short soak can help soften the layers and aid their removal. And if you have the unpleasant experience of a mite infection, immersion in water can be used to reduce mite numbers and confirm their presence as they lose their grasp on the animal and float to the surface. Care must be used to ensure every nock and cranny is dried thoroughly to prevent dermatitis, a highly absorbent paper towel works well. Afterwards, if your animal is of a calmer nature, place them directly under their heat lamp to evaporate any remaining moisture.
- redirectWhat is Uromastyx?
