Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey guys,

I recently got some WC panther chameleons. All are doing great. However, one of them has a bad case of subcutaneous worms. Most of them are in her stomach, but today I noticed that she has one in her eye. I was told that alot of the time when they are removed, the chameleon will die short after from the stress. However, is there a medicine for them, or do they have to be surgically removed? What do you guys think is the best thing I sould do? Should I just leave them?

I will try to get a pic soon.

Ank-Inc.
Adam.

Thats a shame Adam, I know you were excited about getting this new load in. I hope everything is well with the other ones. Good luck.
-----
CANADIAN CHAMELEONS

Adam-

Who told you they will die short after being removed from stress??? That's far from the truth to say the least! When we worm our WC we remove all visible filarial worms from under the skin. If you do not already have the book titled "understanding reptile parasites" I recommend you and everyone else to get it. There are basic descriptions of parasites, and treatments in there (let me make it clear all treatments should be consulted with your vet, until you gain proper experience). Its a must have if your working with any WC chameleons that have not been treated fully before you receive them.

These types of worms can not be safely treated with drugs, so surgical removal is the only way. I would not recommend you doing this on your own, until your vet shows you how. We remove these worms from every WC we get in with in the first week. The only exception to this is if they are in the eyes, then we do one eye at time. To the trained eye, these worms can be easily found and removed with little to no effect on the cham.

-----
John W. Lucas
www.CHAMELEONPARADISE.com
www.CALIFORNIASILKWORMS.com

Chameleons Online E-Zine Author

John - you mention removing them (filarial worms) yourself - I am assuming you are using an appropriate anesthetic.