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How to Build a Reptile First-Aid Kit

In a perfect world, pets would always be healthy and never get hurt. But even when you’re taking every precaution, accidents happen. And when accidents happen, having a reptile first aid kit on hand goes a long way toward your peace of mind. Here’s a short list of the stuff that you’re actually going to use.

reptile first aid kit blog graphic

What’s in a reptile first aid kit?

How many of you keep Band-Aids in your bathroom? Neosporin? Cotton swabs? Congrats—you’re already on your way to having a reptile first aid kit. Anything you don’t have can easily be found at your local drug store.

  • silver ointment
  • disinfectant (Betadine, povidone iodine, etc.)
  • chlorhexidine solution (ex: Nolvasan)
  • gauze
  • Vetrap elastic wrap for securing gauze
  • small waterproof band-aids
  • non-spermicidal condoms for bandaging snakes and lizard tails
  • cotton swabs
  • tongue depressor for looking in your reptile’s mouth
  • nail clippers
  • tweezers
  • magnifying glass for finding mites
  • Nix lice treatment for mites and preventative treatment on new reptiles
  • UniHeat shipping warmers — not heat packs — in case of power outage
  • unflavored Pedialyte for rehydrating a dehydrated reptile
  • NutriBAC or Bene-Bac Plus probiotic supplement for recovery from dewormers and antibiotics
  • Emeraid Intensive Care powdered reptile food (Carnivore, Omnivore, or Herbivore formula)
  • insulin syringes
  • kitchen scale for monitoring weight
  • phone numbers for regular vet and emergency vet

Be sure to check expiration dates on any medications and replace as needed. Reptiles with bandages should not be on loose substrate or allowed to soak. All dressings should be replaced and  wounds cleaned daily unless the vet says otherwise.

When should you call the vet?

  • after near-drowning
  • severe difficulty breathing
  • broken shell or bone
  • cut deep enough to expose bone
  • burn
  • smoke inhalation
  • suspected poisoning
  • electric shock from biting an electrical cord
  • blood in feces
  • prolapse
  • choking
  • straining
  • seizure
  • rapid weight loss
  • paralysis
  • walking in circles
  • prolonged lack of balance

Ultimately, when in doubt, call the vet. Don’t worry about being annoying, just call—it could save your reptile’s life. Not sure where to go? Check out my curated ReptiFiles Reptile Vet Directory. There’s also more information on finding a vet in this article: Finding the Reptile Vet of Your Dreams!

Worried about vet bills?

Whether you have just one reptile or a collection, pet insurance can be extremely helpful for offsetting veterinary costs. If pet insurance is not an option for you, consider applying for a CareCredit card. It’s still a credit card with a very high interest rate that needs to be paid off within 6 months, but it can get you out of a pinch in an emergency.


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