my iguana

Question
hi my name is amanda my iguanas eye is swollen n he rubs it on every thing it is almostr swollen shut what do i do ?????

Answer
Hi Amanda,

When it comes to something as delicate as the eyes then a vet is really your best option but there are a couple things you can do in the meantime that might make him more comfortable. If you can lessen the discomfort then that will lessen the rubbing which could help the swelling go down.

Flushing the eye can help remove any foreign material or old skin that might be causing irritation. If you are able to I would suggest getting him under a gentle stream in the shower. You can use any product suitable for human eyes on him. I don't know if it is available in your state but Polysporin has antibiotic drops for eyes that are sold over-the-counter. There are also lubricating eye drops and eye gels that are available at any pharmacy and can help ease the irritation.

If the eye seems to be bulging out then that suggests that the duct that usually drains fluid from the eye to the mouth may be blocked which can happen with infections. The fluid becomes trapped behind the eye which causes the eye to be pushed forward. That situation is really something that should be seen by a vet as soon as you can manage.

This link has some vets in Indiana that will treat reptiles.   

http://www.herpvetconnection.com/indiana.shtml