Hey, I got my iguana at least 3 or 4 months ago. In the begining he was a little shy and would run away from me, but I could eventually catch him... after I caught him, he became comfortable in my hands and would let me rub him for a long time and even sit on my shoulder. Then he went through a phase of letting me pick him up whenever I wanted with no hassle. Then his whole body started shedding... in the begining he liked it when I held him and pealed his skin... but after he started to shed more, that's when the problem began.... he wouldn't let me get near him... I was told on here that it is normal for them to be tempramental while they shed... but I don't believe that too much anymore because it's been a month, and I mind as well forget even trying to get near him. What can I do about this? It's getting very frustrating!
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I need some advice! My ig is a monster!
Replies (2)
It sounds like the honeymoon period is over 
Don't get discouraged. It is important to remember
that these are wild animals and can convert from being
very nice to nasty for reasons we do not know. It could
be the shed that is causing it. My Ig gets pretty cranky
when her head sheds. Give him a little time and if need
be, wear long sleeves and a pair of gloves. You need to
let him know that he cannot scare you away with these
antics. I know it sounds easier than it really is but
persistance is the key here.
I was very fortunate when I adopted my Ig. She has never
shown any form of aggression and after 9 months I can tell
she really trusts me. But I totally realize that this could
change at any time. She is gravid right now (not fertile)
and she is as calm as I have ever seen her.
Good luck
One other thing and some may disagree with me. It is best not to peel off the shedding skin unless it has been there a long time and seems to be causing a problem or not coming off at all. Even though skin may look like it is ready to shed just like when a human gets a sunburn sometimes the skin is not quite ready to shed off. It is possible that this can even cause pain to your ig if you peel off a piece that was still attached a little too well. It's best to just make sure they are kept misted and have access to water to bathe in. Also as was already said when they turn into a monster even though it can sound awful you may have to force (not hurting them just doing it insistantly) the iguana to be held. Watching out for teeth and tail of course!! If they know they can scare you off by acting mean it becomes harder to tame them!
Stephanie
