Whenever you have any type of pet, it's in the best interest of your pet for you to learn about all of the conditions and issues that could potentially harm your pet. This is especially true if you're the proud owner of an exotic pet, like a bearded dragon. Bearded dragons can develop a wide range of conditions, including abscesses, mites, bone diseases, fecal impaction and tail rot. Many of these conditions may prove fatal if they are not diagnosed and treated in time. Following is everything you need to know about tail rot.
How to Identify Tail Rot
Tail rot is pretty easy to identify because it will appear as if your dragon's tail is dead and rotting. The tail may appear dark in color or dried out. Usually the symptoms start at the tip of the tail and progressively work their way up. If left untreated, tail rot can spread into your bearded dragon's body and start affecting their organs. Unless the progression of this painful disease is stopped, death is inevitable.
The Causes of Tail Rot
Tail rot is usually an indicator that there isn't enough blood flowing through the length of your pet's tail. The most common causes for this are trauma and an incomplete shed. In an incomplete shed, your dragon may retain some of their shed. If layers of old shed skin build up, they can create a tight band around your dragon's tail, which can compromise the tail's blood supply. Once tissue starts to die off, bacteria and decay begins to spread into the surrounding tissue, causing it to die off, too.
How to Cure Tail Rot
If it is caught in time, your bearded dragon's tail rot might be able to be treated with topical medications and antibiotics. However, these treatment courses only work if the progression of the disease has stopped. If your pet's tail rot is actively spreading, your vet may have to amputate the affected portion of the tail in order to get ahead of the infection. All cases of tail rot require veterinary treatment. There are no home remedies for tail rot.
Tail rot is a serious condition that can affect bearded dragons and other reptiles. It is a painful, degenerative condition that always requires medical attention and may even require surgery. If you suspect that your bearded dragon has tail rot, take them to the vet immediately. Time is of the essence when dealing with this progressive disease.
For professional veterinary care, contact a facility such as Stewartstown Vet Services.
