Burns in Reptiles
Although reptile owners take care in protecting their pet reptiles from all possible traumas, accidents may still happen. A little inattentiveness can lead to injury, and in some cases may even lead toserious burns to your pet reptile.Burns are usually attributed to various kinds of heat sources. As a reptile owner, you know reptiles require supplemental heat sources. Some of the most common are hot rocks, undertank heating pads, and overhead lights. While these sources of heat areimportant[Read More]
Fractured Bone in Reptiles
No matter how well you care for your pet reptile, it may break or fracture a bone. These fractured or broken bones can occur anywhere in its body, including the pelvis, neck, legs, spine, or tail.CausesEven when fractures in the bone are directly related to an accident, the underlying cause for the weakness in the bone will need to be assessed. Often, bone weakness is due to metabolic bone disease. Your reptile's diet, nutritional status, and living environment are the most important consid[Read More]
Fractured Shell in Reptiles
The shells of turtles and tortoises act like a second skin, protecting the interior of their body. Therefore, if a reptile's shell is crushed or fractured, it needs to be treated immediately because the fracture leaves the reptile susceptible to bacterial, parasitic or fungal infections, regardless if it occurs in the upper or lower shell.If your reptile has a fractured shell, its tissue and body cavity must be treated first. This is to avoid any bacteria or parasites from being sealed into[Read More]
Rodent Bites in Reptiles
There are many reptiles that feed on live rodents. Because of this, rodent bites are a major cause of various injuries and infections in reptiles.Reptiles suffering from rodent bites will have marks or wounds at the site of injury, which can be found anywhere on the reptile’s body. If left untreated, the wound may become infected and swollen, often filled with pus.The wound can also develop into an ulcer or a sore.Reptiles that are in the habit of playing with live food are susceptible to r[Read More]
Fractures in Birds
Just like humans, birds can also fracture (or break) bones and dislocate various joints. (A multiple fracture is when there is more than one broken bone, or a bone breaks in more than one place.) It is, however, not as easy to treat fractures in birds because many of the bird bones are filled with air, and have higher calcium content. When the calcium content in the bone is high, the bones become brittle and multiple fractures are more likely.The veterinarian will take X-rays and perform bl[Read More]
Injury in Birds
Pet birds often behave like wild birds when it comes to injuries and accidents. Therefore, your pet bird will have a natural instinct to hide any sign of injuries and accidents. This is to give an appearance of strength, and prevent being attacked by animals and other birds of prey.However, your bird is a pet and you obviously want it to recover from any injuries and accidents. So, pay close attention to any behavior that can be a sign of injury.Any abnormal behavior can be an indicator of [Read More]
Heavy Metal Poisoning in Birds
Birds are easily poisoned by the heavy metals found in their environment. Each heavy metal causes distinct symptoms and affects birds differently. The three heavy metals which commonly poison birds are lead, zinc, and iron.Common symptoms your bird may suffer from, if it is poisoned by a heavy metal, include:Constant thirstRegurgitation of waterListlessnessWeaknessDepressionTremorsLoss of coordinated movementsSeizures
Zinc and iron are present in food and are required in small amounts for a[Read More]
Aerosol Poisoning in Birds
Many fumes and other aerosol poisons that affect your bird can be found either in your home, or outside it. From your cookware, to your carpet freshener, the fumes not only irritate your pet bird, but can poison it.You will know if your bird has suffered from fumes or aerosol poisoning because it will have difficulty breathing, tremors and other neurological symptoms. In severe cases, there may be sudden death. Unfortunately, the time between the bird exhibiting symptoms and death, is usual[Read More]