A sick reptile often shows loss of appetite, lethargy, sunken eyes, or labored breathing. Before assuming illness, check your temperature gradient, humidity, and UVB bulb age — husbandry problems cause most reptile health issues.
A sick reptile often shows loss of appetite, lethargy, sunken eyes, or labored breathing. Before assuming illness, check your temperature gradient, humidity, and UVB bulb age — husbandry problems cause most reptile health issues.
Behavioral Signs
Hiding constantly, refusing food for multiple feedings, or unusual aggression/lethargy are worth investigating.
Physical Signs
Sunken eyes, soft or swollen limbs, difficulty shedding, or discharge around the nose or mouth each point to different specific problems — see our health guide for details.
FAQ
Metabolic bone disease, from inadequate calcium or UVB exposure, is one of the most common and most preventable issues in captive reptiles.
Look specifically for a vet experienced with exotics or reptiles — general practice vets aren't always equipped to diagnose reptile-specific conditions.
