Green Iguana Godzilla Swollen Under Eye

Question

Godzilla Left Eye Chee   Our green iguana Godzilla has a swell under his eye.  I was told to use neosporin on it so I have been.  It seems to be getting worse,  can you look at his picture and let me know your opinion

Answer
Hi Beth,
Sorry to say but...that looks to be an abscess... In most cases it will need to be removed by a vet. When igs have an abscess it isn't like a mammals... with the igs instead of being filled with a thick fluid, they are filled with  bead like stuff. Because of this, they can't usually be drained.  Once the abscess is removed, the vet will put him on antibiotics.  In some cases, you can get lucky and just putting him on antibiotics MAY help. That will be the vets decision to try.  I do suggest that with the antibiotics you use a pro biotic since the antibiotics will destroy all the needed gut bacteria that aids digestion.To replenish the needed gut bacteria you can use one of the following products..
bene bac...labeled for birds, approved for reptiles.
nutri bac
acidolophliz+
or plain, human grade Acidophilus......   one capsule will dose for at least 3 days in a row.
BeneBac ..most larger pet stores should carry it...especially if they have birds...
Acidophiliz+  I think  PetsMart carries it..if not....on line at www.reptilesupply.com
Some people use a tiny amount(1/2 cc or less) of live culture plain yogurt for 2-3 days, but this is only something that is recommended for healthy iguanas.
You can treat for 3 days and then once a week if needed.