Exotic pet glossary: rabbit, bird and reptile terms explained

Reptiles

Husbandry

The day-to-day care of an animal: housing, heat, light, humidity, diet and cleaning. The Merck Veterinary Manual describes reptile husbandry as differing a lot between species. A reptile environment log

Temperature gradient

A range of temperatures across an enclosure, warm at one end and cooler at the other, so the animal can choose. Merck describes species-specific gradients and recommends thermostat-controlled heating positioned to provide one.

Thermostat setting vs measured value

The thermostat setting is what you asked for. The measured value is what a thermometer reads at a location in the enclosure. They are not the same fact, so log both.

UVB

A type of ultraviolet light some reptiles need. Merck notes lighting labels can be confusing and transparent barriers can filter UVB. Needs differ by species, so have a qualified professional review the setup. Light that looks bright may not answer the UVB question

Birds

Avian veterinarian

A vet who treats birds. Call to confirm a clinic sees your exact species and ask about its after-hours route. Find the right clinic

Selective eating

When a bird picks favorite items from a mixed diet and leaves the rest. Merck discusses it in companion birds. A bowl holding several foods does not prove a balanced intake, so note what is actually eaten. Describe what the bird eats

Bird history

The background a vet asks for: diet, housing, and the temperature and humidity of the home. Merck's bird history includes the environment, not only the bird. A bird history includes the room around the bird

Rabbits and record-keeping

Rabbit-proofing

Making a room safe for a rabbit to explore: covering cables, blocking spaces behind furniture and removing anything that could be chewed or swallowed. RSPCA stresses it in its indoor rabbit guidance. An indoor rabbit home

Baseline

What is normal for your animal: eating, droppings, activity and routine. Your own baseline helps you describe change to a vet. Write the rabbit's ordinary day

Species passport

A record of the exact species, life stage, source history and current setup, kept in one place. A common nickname is not enough for an exotic-pet vet. Start with the exact species

Life stage

Where an animal is in its life, such as juvenile, adult or senior. It changes diet, housing and the questions a vet will ask.

Sources

Definitions are plain-language summaries for general education, not veterinary advice. Sources checked October 20, 2026.