The Green Iguana is a vegetarian with specific dietary needs. It is important to have these lizards on an appropriate diet to prevent health issues further down the road.
Vegetables
Vegetables make up the majority of the iguana’s diet. Nutrient rich leafy greens provide the largest portion of the diet. This group consists of calcium-rich foods that iguanas need throughout their lives. These greens include mustard greens, chard, collards, turnip greens, dandelion greens and the flowers, romaine, parsley, endive, cilantro, and leeks. There are some leafy greens that are low in their nutritional content and therefore, should be given in limited quantities. These greens include butter lettuce and boston lettuce. Iceburg lettuce should be avoided since it has no nutritional value. Other greens that should not be a part of the diet include: spinach, chard, beets, rhubarb, beet greens, bok choy, and kale.
Non leafy Vegetables also provide a large portion of the iguana’s diet. Vegetables with a high nutritional content include: okra, snow peas, snap peas, bell peppers (all colors), mushrooms, green beans, yams, and squash. The low nutrient group includes zucchini, olives, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.
Do not include carrots and beets in the diet, because these vegetables prevent absorption of calcium. Other vegetables that should also be provided in limited quantities include cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and cabbage. All vegetables should be washed and cut into small pieces before being served.
Fruits
Fruit should be provided in limited quantities because it dilutes the nutrients in vegetables. Good choices are bananas, figs, melons, strawberries, apples, and plums, skins included. Avoid fruit that is high in fat, such as avocados; fruit high in acidity, such as oranges, and grapes and raisins, as these are known to be toxic to dogs and cats.
Grain-Based Foods
Iguanas can be given special treats such as cream of wheat and bread on occasion because these grains supply a minimal amount of plant based proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Choose whole grain bread without added sugar and cook the cream of wheat before offering it.
Supplementation
Even with the best diet, captive iguanas may not get all of the necessary nutrients needed for optimum health. Therefore, proper supplementation is appropriate for these pets. There are many supplements available. Powder forms are the best due to the convenience of sprinkling a little on top of the food at each feeding. In the author's opinion, a phosphorous-free calcium supplement with vitamin D3 and a separate vitamin and mineral supplement should be used. When feeding, alternate between the two supplements.
Foods to Avoid
For years, the dietary needs of iguanas have been misunderstood. Iguanas are strictly herbivores and therefore should not be offered any animal proteins including crickets, worms, pinkies, dog food, cat food, or monkey chow. Commercial iguana diets are also a concern. Most of these diets are high in fat and low in nutrients. If these animals are fed a variety of nutrient rich vegetables and fruits with occasional grains, all of their dietary needs will be met.
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