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Possibly broken leg? Please help

wulfyoukai Jul 08, 2009 09:07 PM

Hi,

I own two iguanas, one 6 year old female [~3 ft. in length] and a 3-4 year old male [~28 in. length]. I know they're both pretty small for their age- the female came to me as the 'runt of the litter', and I adopted the male recently from a friend who lacked the time to care for him. They are kept completely separate because I know the female is very aggressive towards other iguanas [including fake ones!], however there was an accident and the female got to the male, drawing a little blood [though there was no visible open wound] and *possibly* somehow hurting the little one's front leg.

Now, he can't put weight on that leg, and when he walks the leg just sort of drags around. When he does try to move it, there is *very* limited mobility. I can't tell which part of the leg is causing him pain, though there is a slight hard, raised streak above his elbow that isn't present on his other leg. He is still eating and drinking normally, and when he's put into his tank at night he still claws at the glass wanting out as he's always done, just now with only one leg. [He isn't free roam, I just let him sunbathe on the windowsill during the day]

I don't have the money to take him to a vet--a couple years ago I already pined my parents into paying for an expensive operation on the female iggy when she was gravid--and I'm seriously hoping that somehow, he'll be okay even if he loses the use of that leg. Is there anything I can do to help him? Will he be able to make it?
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Zadey the green iggy :3

Replies (2)

MaureenCarpenter Jul 11, 2009 03:52 PM

It sounds serious, if he isn't using the leg and it is dragging. I would soak him by himself in very warm water and look for swelling. I'm surprised you didn't say that the entire arm was swollen. I know vets are expensive, but I strongly suggest and x-ray. If the swelling starts, he will need medication. Good luck.

wulfyoukai Jul 15, 2009 10:40 PM

I've wanted to soak him in a shallow bath of warm water, but wasn't sure if he would hurt himself if he tries to swim? His leg also isn't swollen, does that mean it isn't broken? I don't know if iguanas can pull muscles..
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Zadey the green iggy :3

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