Pet reptiles and amphibians need to be provided lighting at night to mimic natural night time conditions in their natural habitat. Lights will also give you the opportunity to view your pet at night while maintaining the temperature in their enclosure.

Nocturnal lighting involves using a specific type of bulb that produces heat while emitting very little light. These bulbs will allow you to observe the reptiles without disrupting their natural cycles and behaviors. Nocturnal lighting also helps prevent a sudden decrease in the enclosure’s temperature which can be hazardous for your pet.

Common lights that are used as nocturnal bulbs include black lights, infrared heat lamps, and nocturnal incandescent lights. You should never use white lights or other type of bright lights for these can disturb your pet’s natural cycles and may predispose serious health problems.

Although nocturnal lighting is not really required for nocturnal reptiles, it can help recreate natural night time conditions in the wild. This can greatly reduce stress as well as stress-related illnesses.

Asking assistance from your Oakville veterinary clinic will also go a long way in addressing any questions you may have about caring for your pet. Click here to know more about your pet's needs.