Iguanas and cats, you wouldn’t think they would get along, right? Well, surprisingly, they can actually coexist quite peacefully, especially when the iguana is big enough to hold its own. I know this firsthand because I have a pet iguana and two cats, and they all seem to get along just fine.
When I first introduced my iguana to my cats, I was a little nervous. After all, cats are natural hunters and iguanas are prey animals in the wild. But I figured if I introduced them slowly and supervised their interactions, it could work out.
At first, my cats were definitely curious about the new addition to the household. They would approach the iguana cautiously, sniffing and pawing at it. But my iguana, being much larger than the cats, would simply flick its tail in their direction as a warning. And let me tell you, a thwack across the face from an iguana’s tail is not something a cat wants to experience twice.
After a few encounters like this, my cats quickly learned to give the iguana some space. They realized that the green thing was not a plaything, but a creature to be respected. Now, they mostly just observe the iguana from a distance, occasionally giving it a wide berth as they pass by.
Of course, every cat is different, and not all cats may react the same way to an iguana. Some cats may have a stronger prey drive and may not be able to resist chasing or attacking the iguana. In these cases, it’s important to ensure the safety of both pets by keeping them separate or supervised at all times.
It’s also worth mentioning that the size of the iguana plays a role in how well it can coexist with a cat. A small iguana may be seen as a toy or prey by a cat, while a larger iguana is more likely to command respect. So, if you’re considering introducing an iguana and a cat, it’s best to wait until the iguana is fully grown and capable of defending itself.
While it may seem unlikely, iguanas and cats can actually get along. With proper introductions, supervision, and a healthy dose of respect, they can coexist peacefully in the same household. Just remember, a thwack from an iguana’s tail can go a long way in teaching a cat some manners.