Common Reptile Emergencies
Seizures: Seizures, muscle tremors or weakness can indicate toxicities, metabolic bone disease, etc. The reptile should be seen as soon as possible.
Burns: Many reptiles receive burns from heat rocks and heat lamps. Immediately apply cool water soaks to the area. Gently clean the burn with germicide scrub and rince with warm water. Apply silver sulfadiazine cream to the area and call your veterinarian.
Respiratory Distress: Respitory distress may be secondary to other serious problems. Reptiles with open mouth breathing (snakes that are "yawning" frequently), discharge from the nostrils, or an increase in moisture in the mouth should be seen as soon as possible.
Hypothermia: Reptiles outdoors during the spring and fall or allowed free roam in the house may be subjected to cooler temperatures. Gradual warming of the reptile is recommended. Do not place a reptile directly on a heat rock or heating pad. Place a towel over the heat source before placing the reptile on top of it. The optimum temperature for most reptiles should be in the upper 80's F during the day and the upper 70's F at night.
Shell Injuries: Turtles and tortoises with shell injuries should be seen as soon as possible. If the injury occurred from a dog bite or hit by a car, there may be internal injuries. Clean the area around the injury with germicide scrub and rince with warm water. Apply silver sulfadiazine cream and call you veterinarian.
Lumps and Bumps: Any abnormal swelling should be seen by the veterinarian. Reptiles abscesses form a capsule that encloses caseous pus. Treatment may include surgical removal.
Broken limbs/digits: Often reptiles will get their toes caught on cages or carpet fibers. Metabolic bone disease can also cause fractures of the limbs. Keep the limb or digit immobilized until seen by the veterinarian.
Egg bound: Reptiles can lay unfertile eggs. Symptoms may include depression, anorexia, muscle tremors or cloacal prolapse. Even in you think your iguana is a male - she may surprise you! Keep the reptile warm (90-95 F Humidity 80-90%) and contact your veterinarian.
