| Leopard geckos has a handy defense mechanism
whereby they can drop their tail if they feel threatened or
are grabbed by the tail. Tails have also been dropped
as a result of stress.The original tail will then
twitch on the ground for a short while which distracts the
predator so the gecko can escape.
This process is called autotomy. The caudal
vertebrate has connective tissue fracture points that allow
the tail to autotomize easily. This is then followed
by a rapid constriction of the blood vessels to the area to
minimize blood loss. The gecko can regrow its tail but
it may not look like the original with respect to size,
shape and color.
The gecko that has lost its tail has lost a significant
fat reserve and will be more vulnerable to stress.
What should you do if your gecko drops its tail?
- House the gecko individually until the tail has been
regenerated.
- Recommended that you maintain the gecko on paper towel
to prevent the accumulation of debris in the affected
area. Keep the enclosure clean.
- Closely monitor for any signs of infection and treat
appropriately.
It is critical that you evaluate the situation that could
have caused this and correct the situation so it does not
happen again.
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Common
Medical Conditions and Health Problems: Tail Problems
