Three Common Iguana Parasites Revealed

---

     There are various parasites that can affect your iguana. Some of them live internally, while others inhabit the outside of the body. Some of the most common parasites include mites, worms, and protozoans. This article will discuss everything you need to know.

Worms

Worms are internal parasites that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. There are various types such as hookworms, tapeworms, and pinworms. If your iguana is infected with worms, he will show a variety of symptoms such as smelly stools, lethargy, and weight loss. You may also be able to see the worms in his feces.

The veterinarian will have the determine the type of worms that are causing problems. After this, he can prescribe the proper medication. Multiple treatments may be necessary to totally get rid of the infection. You will also need to disinfect your iggie's enclosure before he returns to it. Eggs can be shed in the feces, so you will also need to clean up his stool promptly whenever he defecates.

Mites

Mites are probably the most troublesome of all iguana parasites. They attack to your lizard and start sucking his blood. They usually inhabit the armpits, vent, and eyelids. They're very small, but you may be able to notice tiny specks moving around on his skin.

Mite are notoriously difficult to get rid of permanently. First, you need to treat your iguana. The enclosure will then need to be treated. They can easily hide away and be difficult to get to in the enclosure.

Protozoans

Protozoans are single-celled organisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. These parasites cause signs such as very smelly stool and diarrhea. Since there are various types of protozoans that can infect your iguana, the veterinarian will have to determine exactly which one is causing problems. After this, medication will be prescribed to treat the problem.