Fluid filled spikes.

Question
My iguana has what seems to be some sort of sticky fluid in his spikes. What is that?

Answer
Dear Ms. Riley,

When iguanas' skins are getting ready to shed, the underneath layer exudes "parting fluid", which loosens the whole shed, and if there is enough humidity, the loosened layer should just slip right off. Iguanas' dorsal spines are one of the most difficult areas for them to shed successfully. Oftentimes, shed accumulates and builds up, one layer on top of another, and if this happens long enough, the build-up can constrict the blood flow to the spine and cause it to die and fall off. Also, if there is not enough humidity, the spines won't be able to shed and get so dry they can come right off with the shed. If your iguana is producing a lot of the "parting fluid", it may be that he or she is having difficulty shedding the spines and needs more humidity. Try letting him/her soak in the bathtub in lukewarm water for 20-30 mins. Also, vitamin E oil is useful in applying to the shedding spines. Do not pick prematurely as this can cause bleeding and damage to the spine. Try maintaining higher humidity levels by spritzing the terrarium regularly with water as well as the iguana itself. Also, provide a big enough soaking basin in the tank for the iguana to fit into. Generally, the spines are not a cause of illness or injury, therefore I do not suspect your iguana is in imminent harm, however, I am not a veterinarian, so I cannot make that call officially. Please respond back with any further questions.

Thank You,

Sara J Gwerder
President
Raptor Rescue Iguana Sanctuary
Shreveport, LA
www.RaptorRescue.org