In most cases, well-maintained habitat along with proper diet will keep your pet free from illness. However, be aware of changes in behavior or appearance, which may be a sign of disease:
- Listlessness
- Lack of appetite
- Unusual movement or loss of balance
- Labored breathing
- Shell deterioration or malformation in turtles and tortoise
- Remaining under light source (turtles & tortoises)
- Scale rot (deterioration, ulcers, discharge)
- Change in oral cavity
- Cloudy eyes (not a sign of disease for reptiles shedding their skin)
- Excess mucus
- Lack of muscle tone
- Weight loss
There are a number of parasites and disease agents that may cause these symptoms, and it is best to consult a veterinarian with reptile or amphibian experience for treatment.