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If you think your lizard has eaten or been exposed to
something that may make it sick, watch it carefully. You
should know the normal habits and appearance of your pet
well before anything happens, so you will know quickly if
something has gone wrong.
You may also want to call The US National Animal Poison
Control Center and check on the danger. There is a fee for
their service, but it might save your pet's life.
Here are some signs of poisoning in lizards to watch for:
* Breathing Changes: Breathing speeding up or slowing down,
breathing deeper or shallow, or if the lizard seems to be
having trouble breathing.
* Activity Changes: Check for markedly increased or
decreased activity, rubbing its face on the tank contents,
scratching at its mouth or nose, excessive basking or hiding
and refusing to come out for food or moving or lying in a
way that is not normal for it.
* Digestive System Changes: Watch for vomiting, diarrhea,
constipation, feces look white and chalky, or other
digestive upset.
* Skin Changes: Skin looks dry and papery, or is reddened,
eyes look cloudy or swollen, gums or tongue are bluish or
white.
If you see any of these symptoms, call your veterinarian
immediately, and tell him/her what your pet ate and when,
what symptoms you are seeing, and that you are bringing in
your animal as an emergency. Don't wait to see if it will
get over it; take it to the vet as soon as possible. If a
reptile is showing symptoms the situation is serious, and
your vet may be able to give an antidote or help it stay
alive until the crisis has passed.
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