Filly
Junior Member
Posts: 1
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Post by Filly on Jul 25, 2004 15:04:53 GMT -8
Hi, We have an iguana about 9 - 10 years old named Iggy. We were cleaning its cage today and we put Iggy in the bath tub until we are done cleaning. We noticed that Iggy lost the tip of its tail. I have read that you are supposed to put Betadine in the water but i did not read that until Iggy was back in the cage. We have not handled Iggy that much over the years so does anyone have any ideas on what we can do for its tail and does any know a way we can beable to tame Iggy so he would be easier to handle?
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Post by IguanaKing on Jul 25, 2004 18:53:55 GMT -8
If he has only lost the tip of his tail, don't worry, just make sure his tail is kept clean while it heals. Betadine baths shouldn't be necessary, just keep iggy and his cage clean. Tail loss is a normal defensive function on an iguana and rarely leads to serious complications unless he is kept in filthy conditions. But...it sounds like you're keeping him and his cage clean, so, don't worry. ;D How long have you had Iggy? If you have had him a few years and haven't handled him much, you'll definitely have your work cut out for you. Just remember that an iguana is a wild animal, even though he lives in your home, if you don't socialize with him frequently he will maintain all of his wild instincts. The key is to spend as much time as you can interacting with him in a positive way...pet him, talk to him, hold him, feed him by hand. But, if he's as old as you say he is and isn't tame, DO NOT get your face near him and NEVER take your eyes off of him when you're petting/feeding him. Also, make sure he is getting his required 10-12 hours of sleep in complete darkness (well, varying levels of "complete", depending on the season) every night. This will contribute greatly to his mental stability. Iguanas are extremely intelligent, wonderful creatures that are capable of feeling emotions and trust toward people they know. Socialize with him regularly, you'll be surprised at what a great, cool companion he can become. ;D
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Tammy
Senior
I scream, U scream, we all scream for ice cream
Posts: 104
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Post by Tammy on Jul 26, 2004 17:12:08 GMT -8
If there is an open wound area from the tail loss I would suggest putting some Triple Antibiotic Ointment on it a couple of times a day. It's best to apply it using a Q-tip or cotton ball so that germs from your fingers don't transfer to the wounded area. It should heal up in a few weeks.
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