How to Know if a Pet Lizard is Ill

Lizards are prone to a variety of illnesses, some more serious than others. Knowing the most common illnesses and having a veterinarian who cares for lizards is crucial in ensuring your pet lizard a healthy and happy life in captivity. Educate yourself on the symptoms you should watch for so that you will know if your pet lizard is ill.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Know that some illnesses in lizards are caused by vitamin and mineral deficiencies in their diets. Some symptoms of these deficiencies are skin color that fades over time and seizures. An unseen problem that can stem from these deficiencies is brittle bones. Familiarize yourself with the nutritional needs of your breed of lizard and be sure they are getting the proper balance for good health.
2. Discover that an unintentional poisoning might be the cause your lizard's illness. If your lizard has recently eaten something you aren't sure about, keep a careful watch to see if they become ill. Some symptoms that could indicate a poisoning are changes in breathing, scratching its mouth, skin that looks dry, vomiting or diarrhea, or if they are refusing food.
3. Call your veterinarian immediately if you suspect it's been poisoned and have your lizard examined. Don't wait to see if they get better on their own. If you suspect you know what they ate that is making them ill, tell your vet as they may have an antidote that could save your lizard's life.
4. Learn the symptoms of dehydration in your lizard, which is usually a symptom of a larger problem. If your lizard has dry, wrinkled skin and sunken eyes, take your pet to the vet to have them checked out. The problem could be easily solved by a change in their environment (such as regulating the humidity in their habitat) or could be a sign of a more serious situation like kidney problems.