Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Any tips on jump starting an iguanas appetite?

I tried mixing in some mash or grated fruits into the salad to try to get my IG to eat the alfalfa, and it worked.

Blend the salad up in the blender with some water. Add a little cantaloupe into the blend too for flavor and smell. You want a thick pasty substance, not a soup. I did this with my first rescued ig when he refused to eat much and he gobbled it all down. It is also a good way to fatten up a scrawny ig because they'll eat more without getting full. I did this for a month or so and then he started eating plates of leaves thereafter. It is also good for juveniles because the added water will prevent dehydration and keep them from getting constipated. It is also a good way to ensure the ig is eating everything offered, rather than picking and choosing.

What are you feeding?

Good luck!

Thanks for the reply.
I am offering him collard, arugula, water cress, mustard, turnip and some fruit. I will try to blend it with some strawberries.

Sounds like a good diet. Try adding some squash, like butternut, and maybe some green beans. A little vegetables are good. Also, every now and then you might want to blend in some alfalfa pellets for some added protein. Good luck!