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James asked in PetsReptiles · 1 decade ago

Blue Tail Skink Problems...?

My skink looks like she either has something caught in her throat (which I can't see when she opens her mouth) or is coughing. She is also lethargic. I am not sure what is wrong or what I can do to help her. If anyone has any ideas, please let me know.

Update:

I live in a remote location and there is no reptile vet anywhere nearby.

4 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    It sounds like some sort of respiratory trouble, but without actually seeing in the animal it's hard for even a vet to diagnose it. Sneezing is frequent in skinks because most species are burrowers, so if what you hear is similar to sneezing she may be okay. But if she has clear wheezing or labored breathing, mucus is excreted around the eyes and the nose, or clicking noises when breathing it is probably a respiratory infection.

    Treating a respiratory infection requires two things: an immediate evaluation of the day and night temperatures in the reptile's enclosure, with additional heat sources added or broken/malfunctioning equipment replaced, and the attention of a reptile vet who will evaluate the reptile for systemic antibiotics and fluid replacement. If you change incorrect temperatures in her enclosure to optimum measurements, it may improve. Ultimately, going to the vet is the best option because depending on how advanced the illness has become you're probably not going to be able to help her through it. Most cases require antibiotics.

    If you cannot make it to a vet, at least see if you can contact one by phone.

    Good luck.

  • 5 years ago

    Why was it anywhere near a skink? Take that thing to the hospital asap and btw you should have called a vet not asked on here. You're losing precious time.

  • Dion J
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    It's pretty obvious that you are not caring for it properly, but I don't know what you are doing wrong, because you didn't post any details as to how you are caring for it.

    However, it may have a respiratory infection of some sort. That, and the fact that it is lethargic, would strongly suggest that you aren't keeping it nearly warm enough.

    You should boost the temps- and research proper care of this species.

  • 1 decade ago

    VET

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