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Leopard Gecko Injury
There are various types of Leopard gecko injuries, some more
commonly seen than others. Although Leopard gecko injuries are
rarely seen, some of the more common types of injuries
are Leopard gecko falling injuries, crushing injuries, minor bite injuries from
fighting cage mates or from crickets and toe injuries from
Leopard
gecko shedding problems.
Leopard Gecko Falling & Crushing Injuries
Leopard gecko
falling injuries are seen from time to time.
Irresponsible handlers or incorrect
Leopard gecko handling
can lead to loss of control subsequent falling of the animal.
Leopard gecko falling injuries can cause
major internal injuries and bone fractures. Internal injuries
from falling can be identified within the first few hours by
enlargement of the abdomen or blood in or from the mouth. Later
signs include
Leopard gecko lethargy and unwillingness to eat.
Leopard gecko crushing injuries, although rare, are also seen
occasionally. This can be in conjunction with Leopard gecko fall
injuries or on its own where for example heavy cage furniture
fell and crushed the gecko. It is usually less severe than
falling injuries, but some will need veterinary intervention.
Fractures from falling or crushing injuries will be seen by leg
or tail swelling or reluctance to use the fractured extremity.
This type of Leopard gecko injury can in rare occasions be
complicated by the introduction of infections into the injured
tissues.
Leopard Gecko Biting Injuries
Any type of Leopard gecko biting injury can potentially lead to
bacterial infection and subsequent abscessation. It is better to
prevent the devastating effects of wound infections by early
antibiotics.
Leopard Gecko Burns
Leopard gecko burns
are usually due to direct contact with one or other heating
equipment. It is not something that happens often, but when it
does it can be quite serious. Leopard gecko burn injuries are
usually evident by anorexia, discoloration, swelling, blisters
or loss of function of the effected area.
Leopard Gecko Injury Treatment
When any type of Leopard gecko injury is
suspected, it it must be presented to a
reptile
friendly veterinarian as soon as possible. Biting injuries
can lead to serious infections which can lead to abscessation,
or worse, to shock and subsequent death!. Expensive radiographs and/or ultrasonography might be necessary to diagnose the type and
extend of the Leopard gecko injuries.
Leopard gecko
abscesses must be surgically lanced (opened up) and treated
with the appropriate antibiotics. Parenteral fluids
(drips), antiseptics, antibiotics and anti-inflammatories / some degree
of pain medication and force feeding might be necessary to treat some of the
other injury cases. |