Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I noticed on my male chameleon about 4 or so days ago that at the base of his tail and down to the tip, it looks like its ready to shed. But as of now there has been no shedding and it looks the same. I guess im worried about the skin not coming off and cutting off circulation to the tail. What can I do to help? I have been spraying every day, directly on the tail too, but it seems to make no difference. ( he has always had probs shedding, small bits will continue to stick on him after shedding)
Any advice would be helpful please! Thanks!
Erin

So are you saying that the rest of his body has shed but his tail hasn't completed shedding or it just looks like he is beginning a shed? If he has shed and he has some constricting his tail I would put jojoba or some other oil on it to keep it soft. If there is any sign of constriction I would bring him to a vet to intervene. One of my leaf cham's had this problem with her foot - don't hesitate!

Misting can help but if he always have problems shedding your overall humidity level may not be sufficient. I am no expert, but when I saw no one else had answered I figured I had at least this much to say

lele

>I noticed on my male chameleon about 4 or so days ago that at the base of his tail and down to the tip, it looks like its ready to shed. But as of now there has been no shedding and it looks the same. I guess im worried about the skin not coming off and cutting off circulation to the tail. What can I do to help? I have been spraying every day, directly on the tail too, but it seems to make no difference. ( he has always had probs shedding, small bits will continue to stick on him after shedding)
>>Any advice would be helpful please! Thanks!
>>Erin

I dont remember the last time he shed but it has been awhile, but his tail looks like its about to shed but hasnt yet. I have been misting and giving him lots of water. I had him out yesterday and was playing with his tail, which still is strong and grips well. What type of oil can I put on there / where can I get it?

I notice that sometimes before a shed they (actually my leafs and anoles) take on an ashen color and don't "break skin" for a few days. When Kaiya had her stuck on shed I used jojoba (ho-ho-ba)oil as it readily absorbs, is plant based (actually a wax but at room temp becomes liquid) and is not heavy or greasy so stuff won't stick to it. Others have suggested mineral oil I personally don't use petroleum based stuff if I can help it(just my thing) and the jojoba is what I had on hand. Any natural food store should carry it be sure to get the straight oil, not in with any other ingredient. You can also purchase it online from the Boston Jojoba Co. The plus of using jojoba is you can use it on yourself, your kids, etc.! I use it as a moisturizer in the summer months when I want something light on my face...OK, I am getting way off topic!

You can also use most any plant based oil. My next choices would be: almond, safflower, grapeseed - hope this helps!

lele
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