My giant day gecko has seemed to have worsened over the last month. I know he is at least 6 years old, but didn't ask how old he was when i first purchased him then. He's getting so skinny that his backbone is sticking out a little bit, but he's eating normally. I know that I should probably take him to the vet, but money is an issue right now. He also seems so fragile, that the stress of taking him to the vet would be enough to kill him. Does anyone have ideas of what to do, or if there is nothing...to at least make the last few weeks of his life any better? I give him calcium with d3 and feed him 3 times a week. I spray him at least once a day (more often lately) and the temps are as they should be...is he just getting old?
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Sick Day Gecko?
dragunzfyre
Oct 31, 2006 12:43 AM
Replies (2)
UroTamer
Oct 31, 2006 01:26 AM
I'm not positive this is it, but it could well be a case of tapeworm or too many nematodes. Both steal nutrition from your gecko. How you find out for sure is to bring a fresh fecal sample to the vet to get it checked. My vet only charges about $12.00 to check it. If tapeworm it will require an injection, if nematodes medication is given orally.
I'm not sure what you are feeding him, and some don't agree with me, but I would mix in some waxworms. They're like junk food sort-of, but they have a high protein and fat content which can help for a "short while" until you can get it checked. I wouldn't wait too long though. At least call the vet and ask about prices, it can't hurt. If you ask some vets will also allow you to make payments.
One other possible cause could be dehydration too. It's even more serious and would require immediate attention.
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**Kenn**
The Uros at home:
http://www.arabianwildlife.com/current/dubh.html
http://www.tortoisetrust.org/articles/uromastyx.html
geckogirl72
Oct 31, 2006 04:37 PM
I agree. When I was reading the email I also thought some sort of parasite. These animals can live for up to 15-20 years. I would consult a vet. It could be as easy as just giving some oral meds. Just bring a fresh fecal sample in and then they can give you the right meds. It should cost maybe $20 or so.
Good luck!
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Lisa
1.0.0 P.m. grandis (Linus)
3.3.4 P. standingi (Kona and her 9 babies)
R.I.P. Toby (7/5/06) I miss you...
