Are you considering getting a pet frog? Frogs will probably never hop to the top of the most popular pets list. However, they are pretty cute, and can make charming pets. They can be good options for people in small spaces, and also for responsible children. Of course, picking the right type of frog is key here. As your Cedar Rapids, IA veterinarian, I offer some tips on this below.

Beginner Frogs

Although several types of frogs can be kept as pets, some need more care and attention than others. Unless you’re familiar with caring for reptiles and exotics, you’re probably going to want a starter frog. Some good candidates include Pacman frog, Tomato frog, Fire-Belly toad, and White’s Tree frog. The Waxy Monkey frog, Red Eyed Tree frog, and Amazon Milk frog are also possibilities. Keep in mind that many of the prettier frogs are also the most fragile and hardest to care for. (The Dart frog is a good example of this.) Do plenty of research before choosing one, and ask your veterinarian for specific advice. Only buy frogs from reputable breeders or pet stores. Don’t try to keep a wild frog!

Housing

Frogs vary quite drastically in size, as do their ideal habitats. Smaller frogs can generally do fine in a 20 to 50 gallon dwelling. Larger frogs, such as the African Bullfrog, which can get up to 10 inches long, will need something closer to a 100-gallon tank. You’ll need to set the habitat up to reflect your amphibious buddy’s native environment. This will require special equipment, such as basking bulbs, water heaters, misters, and/or under-tank heaters, and careful monitoring.

Environment

Different frogs have different care needs, so ask your veterinarian for specific advice. That said, one thing they all have in common is the need for enclosed habitats. Frogs should spend most of their time in their enclosures, as they can easily get lost or stepped on. However, their environmental needs vary from species to species. Aquatic frogs, such as the African Dwarf Frogs, spend most of their time underwater. Their habitats would look more like fishtanks than typical reptile enclosures. On the other end of the spectrum, we have the Desert Rain Frog, an adorably angry-looking little guy that requires a more arid environment. Do you have questions about frog care? Contact me, your Cedar Rapids, IA veterinarian, today!