Many captive reptiles carry a significant load of internal parasites, most commonly intestinal parasites. A healthy ackie can handle low numbers of parasites with seemingly no negative effects, but most parasites harm their host in one way or another, especially when the population gets out of control.
If purchasing your ackie from a breeder or adopting from a rescue, ask for documentation proving that the animal has had a fecal check and been found clear of parasites. Reptiles purchased from pet stores typically carry parasites due to cross-contamination.
Symptoms
- Appetite loss
- Unexplained weight loss
- Lethargy
- Vomiting/regurgitation
- Diarrhea
- Slimy/bloody/off-color poo
- Neurological problems
Treatment
The first thing you should do when you bring home any new reptile is to quarantine it for at least 3 months to check for parasites and other signs of disease. This is particularly important if you have other reptiles in your home, especially other ackies. During the quarantine period, take a fresh sample (<24 hours old) of the ackie’s poo to a veterinarian for a parasite check and medication if needed.
Your ackie should have two clear parasite checks before being removed from quarantine.
More ackie monitor health topics:
- Egg Binding
- Egg Cycling
- Gout
- Impaction
- Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
- Mites
- Obesity
- Prolapse
- Respiratory Infection
- Sexing
- Shedding