Water Bowl

A Water bowl is an extremely important part of your reptile cage. They can serve three different functions. For most reptiles it will serve as a drinking source. For others it will serve a second function; snakes like to soak in water when they are getting ready to shed. A third and very important function your water bowl will serve is assisting in humidity levels.

But let’s talk about the first and most important function first. All animals need water to survive and reptiles are no different. A FRESH bowl of water should be available at all times.  Your retiles can not tell you when they are thirsty, they don’t pant like dogs so keeping a FRESH bowl of water at all times is paramount. By fresh I mean changed regularly. You must clean the bowl every time you change the water as well. Best way to achieve this is to place the bowl in a bleach and water solution (10% bleach, 90% water will be fine) let it soak then rinse it well before placing back in cage.  Depending on the size of your reptile will determine the size of the bowl you need. Ensure that your reptile can not turn the bowl over while trying to get a drink.  

The second function is for bathing. When you notice that your snake is going into shed (blue, cloudy eyes) a larger and separate water source should be placed in the cage. This bowl should be large enough for your snake to completely submerge itself under water. This assists the snake in softening its skin making it easier to shed. When you snake does not shed in a full piece it is very uncomfortable for them and they will remain agitated, making it hard to handle, until the next time it sheds.

The third and final function your water bowl will serve is to assist in humidity fluctuation. You can use your bowl to increase of decrease your humidity by placing the bowl in different areas of the cage. For example if your cage is too humid you can move the water bowl away from the heat source into a cooler part of the cage. And if your cage is not humid enough you can place the bowl right next to the heat source.

There are many different types of bowls; you can use a Tupperware bowl if you see fit, just ensures that it will serve the function you will need it to.