Reptile & Amphibian Forums

We have a 3 1/2 year old Iguana. He doesn't like to be handled. We do not cage him in. He has cage to keep his food and to use the bathroom. The top is open. He climbs out to sun himself. Sometimes he will climb down the ladder, across the carpet and sit in the bay window. Ceasar doesn't mind living with us. He just doesn't want to be touched or handled. He wasn't tamed when he was younger because after he was won at a canival he was brought into a home with a cat and dog. We really enjoy just having Ceasar around but we would like to make him a more active member of the family. The only other pets in our hose are fish. So what do you guys think? Any ideas?

Sorry, We live in a house.

Check out www.anapsid.org - there's alot there about igs in general, and there is a section on taming them, too. it's possible, although it will be a ton of work over a long period of time (6 months minimum, more like a year at his age). And some only ever get tamed enought to just tolorate being handled when needed and never really like it much. Good luck!

~Buggzter

It is possible, definately harder, but possible.
Time, patience, and persistence are the key.
Do not overdo it, it will make things worse.
Start by simply "hanging out" with him in the house... step two is being able to sit or stand near him without provocation... step three casual, once in a while rubbing or petting... step four, gentle handling... step five, handling etc.

The website provided by Buggzter will help a great deal.
Good luck,

- IJ