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Piel y pelo

Dysecdysis (incomplete shedding in reptiles)

Problems with the skin-shedding process in reptiles. The old skin does not come away completely and stays stuck, which can affect the toes, tail and eyes.

Moderate🦎 Reptiles

Symptoms to watch for

  • • Retained old skin, especially on the toes, tail and around the eyes
  • • Rings of skin constricting the toes or the tip of the tail (risk of losing them)
  • • In snakes: shedding in patches instead of in a single piece
  • • Eyes with a cloudy appearance if skin is retained over them

Causes

Almost always due to unsuitable vivarium conditions: insufficient humidity, lack of objects to rub against, dehydration, poor nutrition or an underlying illness.

Diagnosis

Examination by an exotics vet plus a review of the vivarium conditions.

Treatment

Humidity baths and careful removal of the retained skin (NEVER pull it off dry). The key is to correct the humidity and the vivarium conditions. Rings that constrict the toes must be removed promptly.

Prevention

Humidity appropriate to the species, rough objects for the reptile to rub against, good hydration and nutrition.

When should you see the vet?

See an exotics vet if your reptile has retained skin, especially if it forms rings that constrict the toes or tail — it could lose them.

Consult a vet

WetAi guides you and takes you to the vet; it does not diagnose.

Notice: this information is for general guidance and educational purposes only. It does NOT replace diagnosis or treatment by a registered veterinary surgeon. If you notice any symptoms, always consult a professional. Wallapets accepts no responsibility for the use of this information without veterinary supervision.

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