Lizards

Learn more about our lizard services below.

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Lizard Care in Westford, MA

Veterinary Care for Lizards

Whole Pet Veterinary Hospital is proud to offer expert veterinary care tailored to the needs of pet lizards. Our team is experienced in diagnosing and treating a variety of lizard species, from bearded dragons and leopard geckos to chameleons and blue-tongue skinks. We provide comprehensive services, including wellness exams, nutritional guidance, parasite prevention, and treatment for common health issues like metabolic bone disease or respiratory infections. 

Here are some of the most common pet lizard species we see.

  1. Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps)
  2. Leopard Gecko (Eublepharis macularius)
  3. Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus)
  4. Blue-Tongue Skink (Tiliqua scincoides)
  5. Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)
  6. Veiled Chameleon (Chamaeleo calyptratus)
  7. Panther Chameleon (Furcifer pardalis)
  8. Argentine Black and White Tegu (Salvator merianae)
  9. Uromastyx (Uromastyx spp.)
  10. Ackie Monitor (Varanus acanthurus)

Common Health Issues in Lizards

Lizards can experience a variety of health issues, many of which are linked to improper husbandry or environmental conditions. Some common health problems in lizards include:

  1. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) – Caused by calcium deficiency or lack of UVB light, leading to weak bones and deformities.
  2. Respiratory Infections – Often due to improper humidity or temperature, causing labored breathing, nasal discharge, or lethargy.
  3. Parasites – Internal (worms) or external (mites) parasites can cause weight loss, lethargy, and other health issues.
  4. Vitamin Deficiencies – Poor diet can lead to deficiencies, especially in vitamin A, affecting skin, eyes, and overall health.
  5. Skin Problems – Includes dysecdysis (difficulty shedding), retained shed, or fungal infections.
  6. Mouth Rot (Infectious Stomatitis) – Bacterial infection in the mouth, causing swelling, pus, or difficulty eating.
  7. Egg Binding (Dystocia) – Females may have difficulty laying eggs, requiring medical intervention.
  8. Obesity – Overfeeding or improper diet can lead to excess weight and associated health problems.
  9. Tail or Limb Injuries – Trauma or infections in tails or limbs, often from fighting or poor handling.
  10. Impaction – Blockages in the digestive system caused by consuming substrate or indigestible materials.
  11. Burns – Resulting from direct contact with heat lamps or unprotected heating elements.
  12. Prolapse – Cloacal or organ prolapse due to straining from parasites, constipation, or egg-laying.
  13. Eye Infections – Often caused by poor husbandry or debris in the enclosure.
  14. Dehydration – Insufficient water or improper humidity can lead to lethargy and sunken eyes.

Proper husbandry, regular check-ups, and prompt treatment of any concerns are key to keeping pet lizards healthy.