Iguana Health Information

This disease is seen in baby iguanas as a soft lower jaw and deformities of the back and legs. Osteoporosis and fibrous osteodystrophy may occur in an adult iguana. Symptoms are swollen hind legs and a swollen lower jaw. One of the most common problems associated with diet, metabolic bone disease, is caused by calcium deficiency. Diets that have low levels of calcium and high levels of phosphorus as well as the lack of vitamin D3, which is derived from UV light, contribute to this problem. The best way to prevent metabolic bone disease is to feed an adequate diet with vitamin and mineral supplements and vitamin D3. (See diet and lighting in this section.)

Deformities and swelling of the limbs are symptoms of this deficiency. Vitamin B deficiency is often misdiagnosed as calcium deficiency. B vitamins administered orally and adding Brewer's yeast to the diet, usually cures this disorder within a week. An injection of B vitamins will treat this faster.

Large visible parasites such as ticks should be carefully removed. Make sure to remove the head of the tick. Mites can be eliminated with a regular bath, various commercial preparations, and by keeping a clean environment. Regular, preventative wormings can help eliminate internal parasites.

White or yellow spots in the mouth or in severe cases a general inflammation of the mouth, are common signs of this infection. This condition can prevent the reptile from eating and can lead to starvation.

This condition is seen as a foamy discharge or mucus from the mouth and/or nose. It can usually be cured by keeping the reptile warm and medicating with antibiotics prescribed by a reptile veterinarian.

Provide heat in a manner that prevents iguanas from laying directly against a dangerously warm heat source. Superficial burns will heal but can leave scars. Serious burns will require more extensive treatment.

The iguana rubbing its nose against the sides of the cage (wire, wood or glass) can cause serious nose abrasions. Housing, in most cases, is inadequate. Treatment must start with better housing conditions. In most cases, applying an antibiotic ointment prescribed by a reptile veterinarian should heal the wound.