Leopard Gecko Health: Abrasions

Background Information

Please read our Disclaimer before reading any further into these common problems. As with any medical problem, we strongly recommend that you immediately contact your veterinarian for assistance.

Possible Causes

Most of the abrasions and wounds seen in leopard geckos come as a result of escape efforts from their enclosures. Other common causes include:

Bites from cage mates.
Thermal burns.
Inappropriate substrates and rough surfaces.
Untreated wood or wire cages.

Diagnostic Techniques

There are a variety of diagnostic techniques available to your veterinarian in the event of an abrasion or wound. These could include:

Complete physical examination.
Detailed patient history and review of husbandry.
Culture and sensitivity testing for any possible infections.

Treatment Options

Ultimately the most appropriate therapeutic plan will depend on the cause and severity of the abrasion/wound. It is important to note that healing in reptiles can be a very slow process. If these wounds are left untreated, secondary infection may set in.

Maintain the appropriate environmental temperatures to help with the healing process.
Keep the cage as clean as possible and practice good hygiene and disinfections.
Ensure proper nutrition.
Do not use a cage substrate that can stick to the wounds.
Thorough cleansing of the wound using an appropriate wound flushing agent.
Application of topical antibiotic ointment.
Treatment of any possible secondary infection with the appropriate medication.

When dealing with medical problems, proper personal hygiene, quarantine and disinfection techniques are absolutely necessary.

Still Concerned Or Confused?

If you would like more information or further assistance, or just want to chat some more about leopard geckos, please feel free to post on the Reptile Rooms Leopard Gecko Forum!