Reptile Medicine information article

Did you know we stock a wide range of reptile care and husbandry products including heat lamps, thermometers, hygrometers, calcium and vitamin supplements, disinfectants and cage furniture. Come into the clinic and check out our range and while you’re there, have a look at our resident bearded dragons and tree frogs.

If you are considering purchasing a reptile or frog, ask for one of our reptile or frog care folders. The folders are a good source of information on husbandry, care, health problems and feeding of many commonly kept species.

Metabolic bone disease is a potentially life-threatening condition that can affect many commonly kept reptiles, especially lizards, dragons and frogs. There are several factors that contribute to MBD, mainly inadequate dietary calcium, vitamin D3 and inadequate UV light. Insects fed to reptiles are generally deficient in calcium. This can be rectified by giving them a healthy diet dusted with calcium and multi-vitamins. Suitable insect foods include potato, carrot, leafy greens and high protein baby cereal. Vitamin D3, produced by the body under the influence of UV B rays, is required for normal calcium uptake and use. If the correct balance of calcium, vitamin D3 and UV B exposure is not provided, the body starts to absorb calcium from the bones ie metabolic bone disease. Signs of MBD include weakness, lethargy, inability to climb, deformed limbs, spine and/or tail, spontaneous bone fractures, muscle spasms and seizures. If you suspect your pet is suffering from metabolic bone disease, contact the clinic ASAP.

Reptile UV lamps have decreased UV output over time – we recommend changing bulbs every 4-6 months.