Preventing Shell and Skin Infections in Reptiles

Let's discuss about preventing shell and skin infections in reptiles.

Many bacterial and fungal infections that reptiles contract are treatable. However, if you could treat an illness or avoid getting it, you'd probably want to avoid it. The best thing a pet owner can do for their pet is to take precautions to keep them healthy and safe from infections and diseases. This article is discuss shell and skin infections in reptiles and how they can easily be prevented.

Shell and skin infections are usually bacterial or fungal. They are common in turtles, tortoises, snakes and lizards. The only good thing about these types of infections is that they are treatable. However, in severe cases these infections can become fatal.

The symptoms of shell and skin infections in reptiles are very visible. They include raw sores, pus, blisters, and scale or shell rot. These are awful things for a reptile to deal with. After all you wouldn't want pus-filled cavities under your skin or have your skin rotting and be foul smelling. It isn't pleasant and it's debilitating. Infections can spread to a reptile's internal organs and lead to death.

Prevention is important and easy. Most infections occur because a reptile is living in improper conditions because of its owners lack of cleaning. Dirty terrariums and dirty water are the main cause of infections in reptiles. Excessive humidity and a poor diet can also lead to infections. All these things weaken a reptile's immune system and dirty conditions are where bacteria and fungi thrive. A compromised immune system and an environment full of bacteria is not a good combination.

Frequently clean your reptile's environment. Their terrariums needs to be sanitized and they need fresh water. You can try to remove uneaten food and feces from the terrarium to keep it cleaner in between your thorough cleanings.

The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your veterinarian or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment.