Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello. I'm new to this site, but I really need some help. I have a "Texas" collared lizard, that I believe is female (tan with white spots) named Zippy. I've had her for about a year and a half. I've never really had any problems until now. Zippy has always been very active, trying to escape all day etc. A few weeks ago she wouldn't open one eye, then she started shedding. Now that shedding is done she rarely opens either eye and has no energy. It has been almost two weeks since she shed. I can barely get her to eat, my daughter has been forcing her to eat a few meal worms. Is she going to die? I'm really worried, so if there is anyone out there who has any ideas, PLEASE HELP! I thought about buying this natural anitbiotic medicine I saw on reptiledirect.com but without knowing whats wrong, I'm not sure that's a good idea. Does anyone have any suggestions? The people at the pet shop where we got her are idiots and have no clue. We all et a lot of enjoyment out of watching Zippy and I really hate to lose her. Should I try to find a vet or just let things happen? Thanks for any info.

hey there,

sorry to hear Zippy is ailing. In my younger days a lot of unfortunate lizards did something similar to what you are describing. They just seem to shut down. what kind of lights are you using on Zippy? I learned heat and lighting often help lizards stay very active, and contribute to their overall long-term health. The best place to get an ample supply of both is the sun. I have kept many lizards successfully for years in outdoor set-ups. Anyway, try letting her out for some air and sunshine for an hour or two a day, and see what happens. Buy some of the basking lamps designed for desert herps that others on this forum use. If her condition deteriorates any more, a vet can help you. Also make sure she gets some water. (preferably while out in the sun) Spray them, they don't always drink out of water dishes...Hope she starts feeling active again.

regards,
-Phil

Thanks to you and everyone who responded. I am using the correct lights and heat. Her temps are good and her UV light bulb is only 4 months old. Someone said she may have parasites or worms. Today she jumped around for a few minutes like her old self, the acted lethargic again. I swear she acts like she has mono! Just wants to sleep all the time and only eats one or two meal worms every couple of days. She doesn't really like crickets but I'll try some again. I am going to take your advice and put her outside. Can I just haul her tank out or will I need to get a special cage? If so where would you reccomend that I get one? Also going to call around and try to find a vet. Thanks again..

hope she perks up for ya, but thats sometimes they way they act when they have them (very lethargic )
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PHEve / Eve

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I'd definitely take her to a vet. Years ago there wasn't much point because it was exceedingly hard to find a vet who knew what to do with a lizard. Now there are many who specialize in reptiles, so I think it would be worth your while to call around and find one.

Best of luck,

élan
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would have her checked for parisites/worms. Can never tell for sure over the computer what is wrong with a lizard, can only look at the obvious things that can cause problems.

What are your temps in the tank? Have you ever had a fecal done on her? Has she always been on the thin side?

I would not wait any longer to have her checked , if she's that thin and not eating you could lose her quick !

I sure hope you find out and she will be okay soon. Let us know!
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PHEve / Eve

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