Reptiles naturally shed their skin for several reasons, from growing to maintaining healthy skin and removing parasites. This process is called “ecdysis”. However, some reptiles experience “dysecdysis”, which refers to when something prevents them from shedding properly. In this guide, we’ll look at everything you need to know about dysecdysis, including how to prevent and treat it.
1. Dysecdysis Refers to Problems Shedding Skin
Dysecdysis is when reptiles can’t shed their skin properly. Many people mistakenly believe that this is a disease. The reality is that it is a symptom of another underlying condition. Dysecdysis can occur because of mistakes in husbandry or because the reptile has contracted some kind of infection. Any reptile can suffer from dysecdysis, but snakes tend to be the most susceptible. Leopard geckos and African fat-tailed geckos also experience this more often than other species. There are different levels of severity regarding dysecdysis, and it can trigger bigger issues if you don’t deal with it quickly.
2. Shedding Skin Generally Takes a Few Weeks
Reptile pet owners need to know what a natural shedding cycle looks like. As noted, this process is called ecdysis. Usually, it takes a couple of weeks––or less, depending on the species. Snakes shed their skin in a single piece. Meanwhile, lizards may gradually shed their skin in pieces. Keepers may see the shed skin in a corner of their pets’ enclosure. In some cases, the reptile may even eat it, so there’s no trace left. Shed skin may sound unappetizing, but it helps them regain any lost nutrients.
3. Symptoms of Dysecdysis Include Dull Skin Sheen
We’ve already noted that dysecdysis is a symptom of other health conditions that affect reptiles. However, dysecdysis itself has many different symptoms. The most obvious sign may be bits of old skin that remain stuck to the affected reptile’s body. This shouldn’t happen with pet snakes, so it’s something to watch out for. Remember: snakes shed their entire skin or epidermis at once––not in pieces.
Dull skin is another common sign of dysecdysis because it will lose its sheen. Affected reptiles may also display cloudy eyes because of unshed eye caps, which can progress to other health issues, like blindness and infections, so it’s important to act quickly. Some lizards may also experience skin build-ups between joints and appendages. This can affect blood circulation and, in extreme cases, cause toes to fall off.
Dysecdysis may seem scary, but the good news is that it’s usually very treatable. Because the symptoms are easy to spot, diligent owners can act quickly.
4. Causes of Dysecdysis Include Improper Husbandry
Some common causes of dysecdysis in pet reptiles include:
- Improper husbandry. Improper husbandry, such as a poor diet, can cause dysecdysis. Inexperienced reptile owners often don’t supplement their reptiles’ food properly with vitamins and minerals. It’s one of many mistakes new reptile keepers make.
- Imbalanced habitat parameters. Incorrect humidity or temperature levels are very common causes of dysecdysis in reptiles. It’s crucial to have UV lighting and a warm enough temperature for regular body function.
- A lack of rubbing surfaces. A reptile may rub itself against surfaces to loosen old skin. They may need more of these items in their enclosure.
Reptiles also experience dysecydis because of an underlying health condition. Maybe they cut themselves and contracted a bacterial infection. Sometimes, parasites infiltrate their enclosure and can trigger these reactions, too. An underactive or overactive thyroid is another potential reason. This can affect the reptile’s metabolism and ability to replace skin cells.
5. Treatment Depends on Your Pet’s Condition
Before seeking treatment for dysecdysis, you must first identify the cause. If it’s because of husbandry reasons, you must address this immediately. This may also rapidly solve the problem. In other minor cases, soaking your pet in warm water can work wonders. You can put them in a tub of warm water for about half an hour. Always supervise them because there may be a risk of drowning. Don’t pick at their skin because this can cause infections.
If the situation is more serious (such as lasting several weeks), you should bring your reptile to the vet. They’ll be able to diagnose the cause and advise the correct solution. An antimicrobial spray or antibiotics may be necessary to kill any bacterial infection. If your pet has a thyroid problem, they’ll explain the best course of action. Sometimes, amputation is necessary when the reptile has necrosis in toes or limbs from lack of blood circulation. This may seem extreme, but many reptiles can adapt to the change over time.
6. Proper Care Prevents Dysecdysis in Reptiles
Preventing dysecdysis in reptiles is relatively straightforward in most cases. If you set up their terrarium or enclosure correctly, you shouldn’t experience too many issues. New reptile owners should learn about their pets before they bring them home. For example, corn snakes need a basking spot of 85-90°F, but ball pythons prefer 90-95°F. These are slight differences that can make a massive difference to your pet’s health. The appropriate humidity level is also crucial. You may add a humidity box to the enclosure to help encourage easy shedding. A good, balanced diet is also very important.
Good husbandry can also prevent health problems from triggering dysecdysis. Always keep your pet reptiles clean. Remove old food and moldy food to prevent bacteria from accumulating. Also, check them regularly in case they have cuts or nicks that could develop infections. With proper care and monitoring, your pet reptile can live a long, healthy life.
