Water:
I learned right away that having water in the cage means inevitable spills, potential contamination from fecal matter, and an uncertainty as to how much liquid is actually being consumed. Since I am home most of the time I decided to go about this issue by removing & completely doing away with the water dish. Instead I have opted for a smaller container (photo above) and implemented a manual/ hand watering process.
I always hold his water cup in my hand when I offer him something to drink AND as he drinks. This allows me to be aware of exactly how much he is consuming on a daily basis. And I believe this has helped him become more comfortable and familiar with me and my hand/s.
NOTE: Obviously this is only a good idea for those who have the available time to commit to this process.
I always hold his water cup in my hand when I offer him something to drink AND as he drinks. This allows me to be aware of exactly how much he is consuming on a daily basis. And I believe this has helped him become more comfortable and familiar with me and my hand/s.
NOTE: Obviously this is only a good idea for those who have the available time to commit to this process.
Water Treatment:
Chlorine is really bad for reptiles. Unfortunately most tap water contains high levels of Chlorine. To counter this I use a product called REPTISAFE by ZooMed. Here are some of the benefits from using this product. (Instantly removes Chlorine & Chloramine, removes Ammonia and helps prevent it's accumulation, adds essential Electrolytes (including Calcium), reduces pH.) |
How often & when:
I always offer my monitor water in the mornings and evenings no matter what. The water he receives throughout the day is dependent on his behaviour. He has visual cues that alert me to his thirst and I am able to properly provide him with water as required.
Visual Cues:
Since I have spent so much time around my Savannah I am attuned to his particular cues. His thirst cue consists of him looking & tasting around the ground very quickly as if he is trying to lap up something that isn't there. When I see him doing this I offer him water and he will normally dive right in. If he is not ready or willing to drink so be it. But I would rather offer him water and have him refuse it than to ignore the possibility that he might be thirsty.
I always offer my monitor water in the mornings and evenings no matter what. The water he receives throughout the day is dependent on his behaviour. He has visual cues that alert me to his thirst and I am able to properly provide him with water as required.
Visual Cues:
Since I have spent so much time around my Savannah I am attuned to his particular cues. His thirst cue consists of him looking & tasting around the ground very quickly as if he is trying to lap up something that isn't there. When I see him doing this I offer him water and he will normally dive right in. If he is not ready or willing to drink so be it. But I would rather offer him water and have him refuse it than to ignore the possibility that he might be thirsty.
All photos & videos by John Kleinknecht - Copyright © 2013 - All Rights Reserved Worldwide