Gout in Iguanas
Gout in iguanas is a painful condition. It causes the joints in the feet to swell. Other areas like the eyes may also be affected. Most reptiles with this condition become very lethargic. So, what exactly causes iguana gout?
Causes
The main reason these lizards develop gout is because they are fed an improper diet. Most importantly, they are given animal protein. Iguanas can’t digest animal protein properly, so uric acid starts to build up in the blood. Eventually, it starts to lodge in tissues of joints.
An improper diet isn’t the only cause of gout in iguanas. Chronic dehydration due to lack of fresh water is another reason. Frequent dehydration also leads to kidney damage, which also causes gout. Other conditions that damage the condition can also bring about this disease.
Treatment
Gout requires prompt veterinarian treatment. Since arthritis is a severe side-effect of this condition, anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids are usually prescribed. Your iguana may even have to undergo surgery. You as the owner will also have to implement proper changes in care to correct whatever caused gout in the first place.
There are many more important aspects of iguana care in addition to dealing with and preventing gout. The Comprehensive Guide to Iguana Care will teach you everything you need to know. Every owner wants to make sure that his/her pet will live a long and healthy life. Check out the iguana care guide now to make sure you’re caring for your pet properly.
Prognosis
You should be aware that there is no cure for gout. Treatment is aimed at relieving signs of the disease rather than curing it. Gout causes permanent disability and pain. Severe cases can even prove to be fatal.
Prevention
You’ve already read about some of the most common causes of gout in iguanas. Therefore, you need to make sure that you take proper care of your lizard. Always make sure he has access to clean, fresh water on a daily basis. Also, make sure you feed him a proper diet. This doesn’t include any animal proteins.
