To prepare the vivarium, put 2 to 5 cm of moistened potting soil in the bottom of the tank. For animals from arid regions, make a desert vivarium by mixing a large portion of sand with the potting soil. Waterworn pebbles, quartz chips, bark chips, and sand placed on top of the soil layer hold the soil in place and decorate the vivarium. Place small branches and stones in the vivarium to provide hiding and climbing areas. Provide a bowl for drinking and swimming; its size should be proportioanl to the size of the animals and the vivarium. Small animals sometimes need a bridge of stones, sand, or wood to get out of the water if the bowl's sides are too high.

Place plants in the vivarium according to the size and type of animals kept. Large animals need very sturdy plants. Plants for small animals include ferns and succulents.