Iguana

Reptiles and amphibians can experience oral diseases. Many of these that plague reptiles can be prevented through proper management. You can improve the oral health of your reptile by following a few simple practices in their care and maintenance.

Provide adequate nutrition –poor nutrition of your reptile leads to malnutrition and makes it prone to developing illnesses and infections, which also affect the oral health. Many reptiles that have poor nutrition also have a tendency to lose their teeth. These can fall out faster than normal. Many illnesses are caused by mineral deficiencies such as hyperparathyroidism, metabolic bone disease, and NSHP. All these can contribute in the abnormal formation of the reptile’s jaw. Meet your reptile’s nutritional needs to lessen dental problems, among other health issues.

Ensure that your reptile cage is not overcrowded – overcrowding in your pet’s habitat causes stress. If you put too many reptiles in the same cage, this could also cause them to fight over food, which leads to trauma. Some reptiles may want to escape by biting or chewing on the cage. This will cause their teeth to fracture and will lead to more dental problems and infections.

Keep their habitat clean – a dirty habitat allows fungus and bacteria to breed; these are the main causes of infections and illnesses in your pet reptile. Make sure you clean your reptile’s cage regularly and properly, and that the food and water bowls are clean. Dirty water is another cause for oral infections.

Supply the correct temperature in the habitat – if the temperature of your reptile habitat is too cold, this weakens the reptiles’ immune system and makes it hard for them to digest food. If you provide the proper nutrition but the temperature in their habitat is less than ideal, they will still not be able to digest well, which again leads to oral diseases.

Provide proper ventilation – if air is not properly circulated in your pet’s habitat, this can lead to sporadic growth of bacteria and fungus.

Monitor your reptile’s condition - you don’t necessarily have to bring your reptile to the vet at the slightest sign of distress. You can practice a few routine checks of the reptile yourself. Just make sure to educate yourself with what to look for when checking their mouth, head, and body so you can identify health concerns at the early stage so these can be promptly treated.

Make sure your pets are not stressed by providing the proper environment and giving them daily nutritional requirements. These will all help maintain good oral health for your pet reptiles.

Photo: http://i333.photobucket.com/albums/m400/lilEngel/iguana.jpg

To view this article in spanish, click here: http://www.petsintouch.com/pnnespanol/12567/existe-tal-cosa-como-el-cuidado-oral-de-reptiles