List of Reptile Emergencies

No matter how hard we try to prevent illness and injury, we cannot predict or prevent every illness or injury that may occur. For this reason it is vital to understand what is considered an emergency so that we may obtain proper veterinary care and treatment as soon as possible. What we as humans may consider an emergency may not be the case with reptiles since their cold-blooded nature presents some unusual and complex situations. All of the symptoms listed here should be considered emergencies because in themselves they may not present a problem, but can be secondary to a much more severe condition. Reptiles have the ability to hide their illnesses very well as a type of defense in the wild so when these symptoms do become present it is possible that the condition may have been present for some time and could be well progressed by the time the reptile begins to show symptoms. Catching illnesses and injuries early is the key to a successful treatment. Treatment by symptoms alone is a very poor way of treating illness since many illnesses can mask themselves with symptoms of entirely different condition. This list is NOT an absolute and should be considered a guide only. If for any reason you suspect that your reptile has a serious, or even a minor problem, you should contact a QUALIFIED reptile veterinarian as soon as possible, DO NOT WAIT.

• Uncontrolled Bleeding
• Weakness or Depression
• Bloody or Runny Stools
• Open Mouth Breathing or Excessive Saliva
• Swelling of Limbs or Softness in Jaw
• Bites and Traumatic Wounds
• Vomiting
• Blisters or Bumps
• Foul Odor or Swelling of Oral Tissue
• Eye Injuries
• Constipation
• Twitching or Shaking

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