Be Wise › Pet Wise guides › Reptiles
Reptiles: a UK guide to care, health, law and costs
A UK guide to keeping reptiles: what they need, how long they live, health and cost, the law and what to do in an emergency.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health, and check current rules on GOV.UK, or with your local authority. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Typical lifespan | From about 8–12 years (bearded dragons) to 50+ years (some tortoises) |
|---|---|
| Daily time | Daily checks, feeding and heat/light care |
| Space | A correctly heated and lit enclosure for the species |
| Best for | Owners prepared to research and to provide specialist equipment |
Care and food
Reptile care is species-specific. Most need a heat gradient with a basking spot, and many daytime species (such as bearded dragons and tortoises) need proper UVB lighting, correct humidity, hiding places and a species-appropriate diet, often including live insects or fresh greens. Use thermostats and check temperatures with a thermometer.
Character and suitability
Reptiles do not bond as dogs do, but many tolerate careful handling. Some, such as bearded dragons and leopard geckos, are calm; others are shy or easily stressed. Never handle too soon after feeding, and wash hands before and after.
Health and lifespan
Common problems include metabolic bone disease from poor UVB or calcium, respiratory infections, mouth rot, parasites, shell or skin problems and difficult shedding. Poor husbandry causes most illness, so review heating, lighting, humidity and diet first. Find a reptile-experienced vet before you buy.
Allergies
Reptiles seldom cause classic allergies, but reptiles can carry Salmonella. Wash hands after handling, keep them out of kitchens, and think carefully before keeping them in homes with very young children, elderly people or people with weak immune systems.
The law in the UK
Reptiles are covered by animal welfare law. Some species require licences under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act, and some tortoises and other species are subject to CITES rules that may require paperwork to sell. Non-native species, including red-eared sliders, must not be released into the wild. Check requirements with your local authority and Defra.
What it costs
Set-up costs (enclosure, heating, UVB, thermostat, décor) are substantial, and running costs include electricity, live food or fresh food, replacement UVB bulbs and specialist vet care. Long-lived species need lifetime planning.
Emergencies: when to call a vet
Get advice from a reptile vet if there is a prolonged refusal to eat, swollen or soft jaw or limbs, mouth rot, prolapse, burns from heat sources, problems shedding or breathing, or if an egg-laying female is straining.
Adopting or buying
Many reptiles are given up when owners cannot cope, and rescues can help. Ask about origin and captive breeding, choose healthy animals, and avoid wild-caught specimens.
Frequently asked questions
How long do reptiles live?
It varies: bearded dragons about 8 to 12 years, corn snakes and leopard geckos 15 to 20 years or more, ball pythons often 20 to 30, and some tortoises 50 years or longer.
Do reptiles need UV light?
Many daytime species, such as bearded dragons and tortoises, need proper UVB lighting to make vitamin D and absorb calcium. Check the needs of the specific species.
Can reptiles carry Salmonella?
Yes. Wash hands after handling reptiles or cleaning enclosures, and take extra care around young children, elderly people and anyone with a weakened immune system.
Do I need a licence to keep a reptile?
Most common pet reptiles do not, but some species fall under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act and some require CITES paperwork. Check before buying.
Want answers for your situation?
The Be Pet Wise app lets you choose your country and ask its assistant follow-up questions.
Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-20. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See a vet for any health concern.