The use of UV light is beneficial to the overall health of various exotic pet species. Some may surprise you. Read the following article from Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital, Louisiana to learn more about how pets can benefit from UV light.
Some reptiles and mammals benefit from UV exposure, such as:
- tortoise
- tortoise
- lizard
- bird
- rabbit
- guinea pig
- chinchilla
reptiles
Snakes get enough vitamin D and calcium from their diet, but other reptiles such as turtles, tortoises and lizards do not. Reptiles require the help of UV-B illumination to produce vitamin D3 in their skin to absorb calcium from food. This is directly related to bone strength. Also, if they are not given the exposure they need, they can develop nutritional-metabolic bone disease, which can be fatal if left untreated.
However, even reptiles that do not require UV illumination benefit from low levels of exposure. For example, leopard geckos can live completely healthy lives without UV exposure, but appear to thrive when given the opportunity to be exposed to low levels of UV light for 15 to 60 minutes each day, studies have shown. shown. Most other reptiles seem to benefit from 2-4 hours of UV light per day.
In addition, reptiles have special scales on the top of their heads called “parietal eyes”. And this “eye” retina is connected to the areas of the brain that produce melatonin and serotonin. Therefore, proper lighting is important to keep your reptile in good mood. This lighting also stimulates their appetite, maintains immune function and regulates body temperature.
The UV light source should emit light in the UV-B range of 290-320 nanometers. Most lighting can emit both UV-B and UV-A light, but UV-A light (320-400 nanometers) does not produce vitamin D3 in the skin like UV-B lighting ( However, UV-A exposure may still be important). habits of reptiles).
The following UV lights have been studied to emit proven UV levels.
Please note that the light will dull over time and should be replaced approximately every 6 months (or as per the manufacturer’s instructions). UV lighting is only effective when within 30 centimeters of your pet. Ultraviolet rays are blocked by glass, plexiglass, and other filter materials, so pets need direct exposure to them.
Different species require different UV light settings and wattages, so if you’re unsure about the optimal light and dose (known as the “photoperiod”) for your pet, consult your veterinarian.
bird
bird
It has been found that the bones of birds that are indoors are not as strong as those that are outdoors. Therefore, exposure to adequate levels of UV radiation may also benefit them. In fact, UV lights are specifically designed to ameliorate extreme cases such as injuries, arthritis, and debilitation. However, owners should be careful to monitor UV levels, as too much UV light can cause burns and cancer in birds.
When installing the lights, there should be a “slope” so that there is space in the cage away from the lights and the birds can go there if they wish. High power lights should be within 6 inches (15 cm) of the highest perching point on the top of the bird’s head, and low power lights should be within 12 inches (30 cm) of him.
mammalian
rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas
Like birds, guinea pigs, rabbits and chinchillas kept indoors do not have as strong bones as those kept outdoors. Therefore, UV light may also be beneficial for them. For example, animals with limb fractures had increased bone density after exposure to UV light.
Lights should be placed at least 9 inches (about 23 centimeters) from the pet’s enclosure. 2-4 hours of UV exposure per day is recommended.
the sun is better
It’s clear that animals benefit from exposure to UV lighting, but even the best light bulbs fall short of natural sunlight. Therefore, providing pets with a supervised and safe outdoor space also improves their bone health and overall well-being.
***If you decide to spend time outdoors, be sure to put your pet in a sturdy cage to prevent it from running away or being attacked by a falcon, cat or dog that loves your pet. ***
If you have further questions about UV rays and your pet, please contact your exotic veterinarian.
Reptiles need UV light to survive (without UV light they develop serious life-threatening diseases). And some mammals have been found to benefit as well. However, specific light and exposure times should be discussed with your outpatient veterinarian.
Additionally, time spent in the natural sun is better than any artificial light (or light coming in through a window), so regular, monitored time outside should be set aside. Of course, be sure to take the necessary safety precautions.
If you have any other questions, be sure to let us know at your exotic pet’s next veterinary visit. To schedule an exotic pet test, call Avian & Exotic Animal Hospital, Louisiana at (504) 455-6386.