Symptoms of Skin and Shell Infections

Does your pet have any symptoms of skin and shell infections that often shows up?

Skin and shell infections are fairly common in pet reptiles. The infections can usually be blamed on the reptile owner's poor care. Many reptiles live in improper conditions where bacteria and fungi thrive.

Skin and shell infections are bacterial or fungal infections. Reptiles can get infected if they come in contact with the bacteria or fungus. If they have a scratch, cut or wound they are more susceptible to skin and shell infections.

Dirty terrariums with humidity levels that are too high, are the perfects areas for bacteria and fungi to grow, and reproduce. That is why it is always so important that reptile owners frequently clean their pet's home.

Once a reptile becomes infected they are likely to be lethargic and have a lack of appetite. Reptiles with skin and shell infections will also have visible signs of infection on their skin or shell. These signs include sores, scale or shell rot, pus, blisters, wounds that do not heal, and turtles often get soft spots on their shells.

Bad smelling fluids and pus often drain from infected area of skin and shell if a reptile has such an infection. Infections can lead to secondary infections or they can spread to other parts of a reptile's body which can be fatal.

Reptiles need very clean terrariums, proper temperatures and humidity levels, a proper diet, and there shouldn't be sharp objects in their terrarium. A reptile can get cut on sharp objects and become much more likely to develop a skin or shell infection.

If your reptile shows signs of an infection, immediately seek treatment. If an infection is caught before it spreads and becomes severe reptiles often lead a full recovery. Always look at your reptile and make sure they aren't experience any abnormal physical or behavioral changes.

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.