Iguana - Common Diseases

What are some of the common diseases of pet iguanas?

Common conditions of pet iguanas include metabolic bone disease, parasites, and abscesses.

What are the signs of these diseases?

Metabolic bone disease, probably the most common condition of pet iguanas, is most often caused by feeding an improper diet that is low in calcium or vitamin D and high in phosphorus. It may also be caused or exacerbated by a lack of ultra-violet light (especially UV-B). Vitamin D and Calcium are requited for bone health, deficiency of these leads to reduced bone density and strength. Common signs include swelling of the lower jaw and/or swelling of the hind-limbs. In the early stages 'rosettes' (swellings) may be seen along the ribs. Fractures and bone abscesses may then begin to occur.

Parasites, especially pinworms, are common in pet iguanas. They may cause no clinical signs. However, they may also cause diarrhoea, anorexia and/or weight loss.

Abscesses, commonly seen in pet iguanas, appear as hard tumour-like swellings anywhere on the pet's body. They may result from bites or scratches or from underlying medical causes such as MBD.

How can I tell if my iguana is sick?

Signs of disease in iguanas may be specific for a certain disease, such as jaw or hind-limb swelling as seen in iguanas with metabolic bone disease, or non-specific, such as an iguana with anorexia (lack of appetite) and lethargy, which can be seen with many diseases. ANY deviation from normal should be a cause for concern and requires urgent evaluation by your veterinary surgeon.