Skeletal Deformity in Amphibians

Let's talk about skeletal deformity in amphibians.

You have probably heard of osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease. These are disorders that can greatly affect a person's bones and how they live their life. However, did you know that pets often develop such diseases as well. This article will focus on skeletal deformities in amphibians that are caused by the development of metabolic bone disease.

Nutritional deficiencies such as vitamin imbalances can lead to skeletal deformities. It is fairly common for reptiles to suffer from something called metabolic bone disease and amphibians develop this as well. Metabolic bone disease is caused by nutritional deficiencies. Amphibians are also known to get a disease called squamous metaplasia.

How do these nutritional deficiencies and vitamin imbalances occur so often in amphibians? Mainly because of their diet. Their diet may seem fine, but most of the time it's not actually well-balanced. Amphibians that feed mostly on insects end up with low amounts of calcium, protein and phosphorus. Amphibians that only eat crickets are more susceptible to developing metabolic bone disease.

Amphibians typically develop metabolic bone disease when they have deficiencies of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D. The proper amount of calcium is needed to keep an amphibian's bones healthy and strong. Vitamin D actually helps control a body's calcium metabolism, therefore vitamin D is important to an amphibian as well.

The most common skeletal deformities and signs of metabolic bone disease in amphibians include a curved spine, broken bone or bone fractures, a deformed jaw, muscle spasms, and bloating.

If your pet amphibians has these symptoms, take them to a veterinarian. They will run tests and take x-rays to diagnose metabolic bone disease. There are treatments available for this disease. Improving diet and possibly giving your amphibian vitamin supplements may be required. ultraviolet B lighting can also help metabolic bone disease. Reptiles that don't get enough light usually develop this disease. 

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.