Reptile Health Quiz

What is a common sign of appendage pain in an animal?

• Increased appetite

• Lameness on one or more limb

• Bright and shiny skin

• Increased activity

Answer explanation

Limping or reluctance to walk on a limb can be caused by pain anywhere in the nearby vicinity. The lower down the leg the less likely it is that the reptile will weight bear, especially if it involves the foot or toes.

What should you do if your reptile shows a persistent loss of appetite?

• Increase the temperature in their enclosure

• Ignore it, as it's normal for reptiles

• Take them to a reptile vet for a check-up

• Change their diet

Why is it important to weigh your reptile regularly?

• To ensure they are not overeating

• If they are a juvenile to see if they are growing

• To make sure they are not too active

• Weight loss/gain can be a initial sign of ill health

What disease or illness may be indicated by bubbles in the nose or mouth?

• Metabolic Bone Disease

• Respiratory illness

• Mouth Rot

• Scale Rot

What is a sign of potential generalised illness in reptiles?

• Increased appetite

• Becoming less active

• Bright and shiny skin

• Slow weight gain

Answer explanation

Similar to humans animals will be reluctant to move if it causes pain or uses extra effort.

What is a recommended frequency for checking your reptile's health?

• Once a year

• Once a month

• Every day

• At least every week

Answer explanation

This frequency can catch any issues early by noticing small changes in the animal.

Also allows the human to become familiar with the individual reptile, its normal behaviour patterns and responses to people.

Would a change in appetite be considered a potential sign of poor health?

• Yes - animals that stop eating are often in pain or unwell.

• No - its normal.

• No - individual preferences exist and food may be left.

Answer explanation

Even though food preferences do exist within all animals, sudden or uncharacteristic changes in appetite will have an underlying cause.

What should you do if your reptile is not producing any droppings?

• Take them to to vet

• Reduce the temperature in their enclosure

• If safe to do so, place them in a warm shallow bath and monitor

• Increase their food intake

• Ignore, as it is normal

What is the purpose of an annual veterinary health check for reptiles?

• To make sure they are active

• To ensure they are eating enough

• To check their general health and behavior

• To change their diet

Sudden onset aggression is the result of pain or poor health.

• True - ALWAYS

• False - Never

• True - Sometimes

Answer explanation

Pain, poor health and underlying conditions can result in sudden onset aggression. HOWEVER... so can negative experiences, including:

Uncomfortable handling.

Abusive experiences.

Pain induced by humans (could include veterinary procedures).