Reptile & Amphibian Forums

First of all, was wondering if claws grow back. I believe that they do because people trim their monitor's claws regularly, but recently my healthy (everything seems healthy other than this) juvenile asian water monitor's right, back, foot, long, toe claw fell off and hasn't seemed to begin growing back. It looks like a normal toe, just without a claw except for one part of it, the very end where the claw should be. Granted I've got no idea what it should look like and it could look normal I've just got no idea. Any input on this would be great, it's got me baffled and I just want the best for the little guy.

well, from what I've seen in my male glauerti, as well as other peoples captives, such as acanthurus and tristis, the loss of nails/toetips, is sometimes caused by improper humidity.. The areas of skin around the toes can be difficult to shed in insufficient humidity. The sheds can get caked on, restrict bloodflow, and can then lead to the toe pinching off and then falling off.. This happened to my male kimberly- it appeared to get infected. I cleaned the area bidaily, until the infection went away. I was able to prevent him from losing his toe, but all he lost was his toenail... It hasn't grown back...

I'm not sure what the situation is with your monitor, but if the whole nail was ripped out, I doubt it will grow back.. I've also heard of animals injuring their nails, and toes when getting them stuck in screening...

anyways, that's just what I've seen, maybe there's other explanations as to what may have caused this, or if it will grow back.. Good luck let us know how he/she turns out...

Have a great day,

bob
The Odatriad

On a regular basis, they always grew back, and quickly. My friends blackthroat has lost a few and one is a bit slow so far if its growing back. My 2 dwarfs seem to have always ripped them out digging, but only on occaision.

My argus cross ripped his nail off also while climbing and it appears to be growing back.