Iguana Care 101: Signs of a Healthy Iguana | Mittens and Max

Keeping a pet iguana healthy and happy requires care that is different from common pets like cats and dogs-it takes knowledge, planning and special care requirements. In addition, annual checkup with an exotic animal vet can help you ensure that your pet is staying on top of any health concerns as well.
Between veterinarian visits, here are the signs to look for in a healthy iguana:
1. Clear eyes
Your iguana's eyes should be clear, with no tears, discharge or dry, crusty residue. Your #iguana should be observant and attentive to what's going on in his environment.
Iguanas have a third eye on top of their head that is called a parietal eye, and it looks like an oval-shaped pearl with an opaque covering. It is an actual organ, and is used to detect predators that may lurk above your iguana. This eye should also be clear and free of discharge.
2. A healthy nose
Iguanas sneeze regularly to rid their bodies of excess salt, and after your iguana sneezes, you'll certainly notice small salt deposits on his nose. These nasal salt deposits are a normal part of your iguana's life and are not a cause for concern. An excessively runny nose or discharge, however, is a sign of trouble and should be investigated.
3. Healthy skin
Your iguana's skin should be free of parasites, lesions, abrasions and sore spots. A healthy iguana will shed his skin anywhere from several times a year to once a year, depending on his size and age. You may need to help remove some of the dead skin from your iguana when he is shedding, but only if it can be done with little or no effort. Soaking, bathing and misting can also aid in the shedding process. Ask your veterinarian for tips on helping your iguana shed his skin.
4. A pink mouth
Besides being reasonably clean, the inside of your iguana's mouth should be a healthy pink color and should be free of discharge or any sign of infection. Stomatitis (“mouth rot”) is somewhat common in iguanas, and may go unnoticed without routine checks.
5. A generally happy pet
Your iguana's normal behavior should be active and perky. He should be aware of his surroundings and he should be alert. He should have a steady gate when he walks, and he should be able to move around easily using both arms and legs, as well as his tail, without limping or favoring his limbs.
Source: www.petco.com/...
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