The animal is eventually going to reach 4-5 feet in length. It's nutriontional needs are beyond lettuce and veggies. People often buy these animals on a whim, not realizing the responsibility that comes along with owning it. Iguanas probably, on average in captivity, optimally, live 12-15 years. During the summer, in temperate areas, you can theoretically leave it in your backyard.
People often associate salmonella with reptiles.
But we fail to realize that people keeping retplies are oftne the contaminating agent of salmonella TO the reptile. Mark is adding that Salomonella can be transferred from dogs and cats as readily as reptile. Wash your hands. Kevin - often we are feeding an inguana unknowingly tainted food. This animal may not have salmonella, but we are introducing it into his body, thru unwashed vegetables and chicken, raw meats, etc.