steinwaycourtvet's blog

What about my pet reptile?

Unlike domestic animals, reptiles acquire a unique set of illnesses making their care a challenge. Many times, unfortunately, some of these "pets" are so specialized in their requirements (i.e. temperature, humidity, lighting, etc.) that I find myself telling people that sometimes no matter what we do, many of these animals have extreme difficulty coping with an artificial environment. Diet can also be an incriminating factor. Iguanas for example that are fed low calcium diets develop osteodystrophy. Owners frequently believe their Iguanas are "chubby". when actually, this is due to abnormal swelling from pitting of the bones as their bodies try to mobilize calcium.

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