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Leopard Gecko
Worms
In the appropriate conditions, Leopard gecko
worms are rarely a concern in captivity. The incidence of worms
are however increased in young Leopard gecko and in overcrowded
or stressed or stressed situations. A healthy geckos should be
able to withstand the effect of Leopard gecko worms. Common
leopard gecko worms include Pinworms (also known as Threadworms,
a type of roundworm) and Tapeworms.
Leopard Gecko Worm Clinical Signs
Worm infections can have anything from
non-apparent to severe consequences. Clinical signs include
partial to complete poor body condition, anorexia, diarrhoea, emaciation,
dehydration,
shedding
problems and listlessness.
Leopard Gecko Worm Treatment
When any of the abovementioned signs are
seen, make sure to book an appointment with a
reptile friendly
veterinarian as soon as possible. A fresh faecal sample sealed
in a ziplock or similar plastic bag will aid in the diagnoses.
Sometimes deworming is empirical, but it is better to do a
faecal floatation or faecal wet preparation to rule in, or at
least rule out Leopard gecko worms.
Leoaprd gecko worm treatment is mainly based
on deworming with an appropriate antiparasitic agent. Supportive
Leopard gecko worm treatment in severe cases include
hospitalization with parenteral fluids (drips), antibiotics and
force feeding until the gecko is strong enough to be discharged.
Leopard Gecko Worm Prevention
The most important aspect of Leopard
gecko worm prevention is
quarantine, strict hygiene and the prevention
of stress, mainly by preventing overcrowding and
male-to-male bullying.
Leopard gecko
hygiene includes regular and proper cleaning of the
cage, the substrate and cage furniture.
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