
How to Quarantine New Reptiles Safely
Bringing home a new reptile is exciting! But first, you must quarantine it before adding it to your collection. Quarantine is key. It protects the health of your current reptiles and helps your new one thrive.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to properly quarantine reptiles. You’ll find tips for monitoring their health and effective isolation methods. These steps will help prevent disease and reduce stress.
Pro Tip: Quarantine keeps your new reptile safe and protects your current pets too. This is important, even if the new pet seems healthy.
Quick Guide: Why Quarantine Matters
- Reptiles can carry parasites or infections without showing symptoms
- Stress from transport can trigger illness
- Quarantine helps you establish a health baseline
- Early intervention prevents outbreaks in your collection
- Even reptiles from trusted breeders should be isolated first
Important: Quarantine isn’t just about space — it’s about consistent care and observation.
Step-by-Step: How to Quarantine New Reptiles Safely
Step 1: Set Up a Separate Enclosure
Place your quarantine tank in a separate room. It’s best if there’s no air exchange between collections.
Quarantine enclosure checklist:
Item | Purpose |
Simple tank or tub | Easy to clean, reduces stress |
Paper towel substrate | Shows droppings and reduces hiding spots for pests |
Basic hides | One on each side of the gradient |
Water dish | Shallow and cleaned daily |
Thermometer + hygrometer | Monitor climate closely |
Heat source + thermostat | Maintain consistent temps without light (e.g., ceramic heater) |
Quick Tip: Don’t add decor, live plants, or unnecessary items — keep it simple for visibility and hygiene.
Learn more in Lighting Essentials for Healthy Reptile Enclosures.
Step 2: Establish a Controlled Temperature Gradient
Even during quarantine, your reptile needs proper heating.
Temperature tips:
- Create a warm side and a cool side
- Use thermostats to avoid overheating
- Avoid UVB during the first 7–10 days — stress reduction comes first
- Monitor humidity, especially for tropical species
Species Type Temp Range Tropical (e.g., chameleons) 24–32°C Desert (e.g., bearded dragons) 26–42°C Temperate (e.g., corn snakes) 22–30°C Pro Tip: Use digital thermometers with probes for the most accurate readings.
Step 3: Minimise Cross-Contamination
Your hands, tools, and clothes can transfer pathogens.
Isolation protocol:
- Always handle quarantined reptiles last
- Use separate tools (tongs, bowls, misters, etc.)
- Wash hands and change gloves between enclosures
- Launder clothes if you’ve handled the new reptile directly
Sustainability Tip: Use washable microfibre cloths and reusable cleaning bottles to reduce waste.
Step 4: Observe Daily for Health Changes
Quarantine is your opportunity to learn about your reptile’s habits and catch early signs of illness.
What to track:
Observation Why It Matters Appetite Indicator of stress, illness, or acclimation Faeces consistency Check for parasites or digestive issues Skin and eyes Look for stuck shed, discharge, or swelling Movement and posture Watch for imbalance, lethargy, or unusual hiding Pro Tip: Keep a notebook or digital log with daily notes — even small changes matter.
Step 5: Treat for Parasites if Needed
Many reptiles carry parasites from birth or previous enclosures.
Parasite management:
- Take a faecal sample to a vet after 5–10 days
- Treat based on veterinary advice
- Repeat testing after treatment to ensure clearance
- Avoid over-the-counter treatments unless advised
Quick Tip: Don’t share bedding, hides, or water bowls between enclosures. This rule stands even after treatment.
Step 6: Keep Quarantine Lasting 30–90 Days
Time gives you space to see delayed symptoms or infections.
Recommended quarantine duration:
Source Quarantine Period Reputable breeder 30–45 days minimum Unknown history or rescue 60–90 days recommended Pro Tip: If the reptile shows signs of illness near the end of quarantine, restart the clock after recovery.
Additional Quarantine Considerations
Feeding During Quarantine
- Feed smaller portions than normal to reduce waste
- Use tongs to keep handling to a minimum
- Clean uneaten food within 30 minutes
- Don’t share feeders between enclosures
Hygiene and Cleaning
Area Frequency Water bowl Daily Substrate (paper towel) Replace every 1–3 days or after soiling Full tank clean Weekly Spot clean As needed Quick Tip: Use diluted F10, veterinary disinfectant, or white vinegar for safe tank cleaning.
When to End Quarantine
End quarantine only when the reptile:
- Has eaten consistently for at least 3–4 weeks
- Shows no signs of external or internal parasites
- Has completed a healthy shed
- Has passed two clear faecal tests (if tested)
- Displays normal, alert behaviour
Pro Tip: Introduce your reptile to the main setup gradually — ensure the temperature, lighting, and layout match what they’re used to.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake Solution Ending quarantine early Wait the full period even if things look fine Handling too often Let the reptile settle with minimal stress Using the same tools across tanks Keep everything separate or disinfect thoroughly Ignoring mild symptoms Address small concerns early — they often grow Frequently Asked Questions
Can I quarantine two new reptiles together?
Only if they’re the same species and came from the same source — and even then, it’s safer to isolate individually.
What if I don’t have space for a second tank?
Use a temporary plastic tub or large faunarium in another room. Separation is more important than enclosure style.
Do I need to see a vet during quarantine?
Yes, this applies to a faecal test. It’s important if you see unusual behavior, weight loss, or discharge.
Should I disinfect my tools daily?
Yes — even if you didn’t use them. Dust and airborne pathogens spread easily in small spaces.
Can I speed up the process if everything looks fine?
No — symptoms and parasites often appear after weeks. Stick to the full duration for safety.
Protect the Collection by Quarantining the Newcomer
Quarantine isn’t about paranoia — it’s about protection. Use smart reptile quarantine steps. Check the health of new reptiles daily. Follow good isolation tips. This way, your pet gets the best start and keeps your other animals safe.
Be thorough. Be consistent. Keep your collection healthy.
For a complete temperature control strategy, read Temperature and Humidity Control for Reptile Habitats.