Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a 3 YO Sav Monitor in a 8'x3'x2' enclosure. I feed him 4 mice twice a week (Wed and Sat). Humidity stays in 75%-85% range, 1 foot of topsoil/decomposed granite substrate(moist, not wet).

My question is, the guy is getting kind of obese. He has room to run, burrow, hide and bask (130 degrees). I am going to build up 4 more feet for some vertical room, but I was wondering if changing the frequency of mice feeding would help with his weight issue. Maybe do one a day or two every other day?

He is on rodent only diet. I get crickets once in a while,but he likes the mice more. Will chasing crickets help withthe weight? How about roaches (not as easy to obtain locally)?

He is fat, but maintains a proper eating schedule, sheds/poops/hides regularly. He doenst burrow much anymore.

ANy help?

Providing the temps and humidity are sufficient, maybe you could try roaches, or possibly smaller mice more frequently. I fed my monitors everyday.

Try raising your basking temperature to 140-145.

Hello,

My savs are storage machines. I feed them f/t small rats when they seem to be losing bulk and they gain and retain all they are given. My temps match yours roughly, 130-140 basking. Humidity is good so I water when needed- they retain water well too. Best to you- Mike

I have a bank of 3 50W halogens less than a foot from his hide. How much closer can I go without burning him? I think I will try to buy 4 mice twice a week and feed every day. I am guessing smaller meals more frequently with plenty of heat will amp up his metabolism, is this correct?

I am willing to bet the temp is way more than 130 with that kind of setup. What is the basking surface made from? Plywood?

Its a log that I cut down from the front yard, kind of a tropical plant. Funny thing is its been in the light and humidity and is starting to sprout new branches!