IGUANA DEWORMING

BY DR. ABHISHEK GUPTA

Most, if not all, reptiles and amphibians found in the wild are thought to harbour parasites. In the wild, the delicate balance between parasite and host differs dramatically from the relationship between parasite and host in captivity. The environmental concentration of parasites is not high in the wild, where an animal is not confined within a small space. As a result, the parasite burden on any particular host is
typically low. However, in captivity, especially under stressful conditions, parasite concentrations may be much higher and thus more dangerous. Parasitized reptiles tend to be more susceptible to diseases and have poor to no ability to reproduce. There are numerous nematodes that live within reptiles. They can be found in the blood, body cavities and membranes, and the lungs, but the digestive tract contains the vast majority of them. In the initial observations of our green iguanas, we noticed low appetite, loose sticky stool, and lots of undigested food material in the stool.

Random faecal samples were found to be positive for Entrobius vermicularis infestation- also known as pinworms– by direct microscopy and flotation method. Many people believe that pinworms are non-pathogenic, but I usually treat to avoid any problems that may arise as a result of
their presence. Many people believe that pinworms are nonpathogenic, but I usually treat to avoid any problems that may arise as a result of their presence. Pinworms are Oxyurids and have a simple life cycle and can exist in small
numbers within the colon, putting them at risk of impaction. We dewormed all iguanas with pyrantel embonate twice a week for two weeks. After deworming, we tested the faecal samples and found that they were negative for pinworms.
Pinworms are common in iguanas, and they can infect them at a young age but fortunately, pinworms are relatively easy to treat, so there is no need to panic. During the treatment, you must remove your iguana’s faeces as soon as possible and keep its environment as clean as possible. This is necessary so that they do not re-infect themselves with pinworms. Before beginning the treatment described below, thoroughly clean the surrounding area. Pinworms have a relatively short lifespan and usually do not cause any serious health problems.While the worm treatment is ongoing, it is critical to ensure that they are fed a healthy diet. Other critical requirements include proper heating and lighting, as well as hygiene management in their enclosures.