Amphibians make fascinating and rewarding pets. They often have adorable and unique appearances. Meanwhile, their behavior is always entertaining to observe. However, caring for amphibians like frogs and salamanders can be tricky. For example, they are susceptible to different illnesses that can arise from poor diet, unclean living conditions, and bacteria. The good news is that most of these health conditions are avoidable if we take preventative measures and only buy pets from legitimate dealers. Check out these common illnesses that affect pet amphibians now.
1. Red-leg Syndrome, a Sign of Infection
Red-leg syndrome is a common sign that your pet amphibian has a bacterial infection. This condition produces a distinctive coloring in the legs of toads, newts, and other creatures. Owners may see spots on the amphibian’s underbelly and legs. The main causes of this condition are underfeeding and poor water quality. In short, if you’re caring for your amphibian pets properly, you probably won’t encounter red-leg syndrome.
The symptoms include anemia, weight loss, and lethargy. Sores may develop and progress along the amphibian’s skin. In extreme cases, their tongue and skeletal muscles may bleed. To prevent red-leg syndrome, always maintain good hygiene when looking after your pet frog or salamander. It’s crucial to bring your pet to the vet immediately if they show signs of red leg syndrome. They’ll usually prescribe antibiotics, and the animal will recover if treated early. It is contagious, so isolate the affected animal from other pet amphibians.
2. Ranavirus, a Painful Viral Infection
Ranavirus is a horrible viral infection that typically causes skin ulcers. Frogs are especially susceptible to this nasty condition; it just doesn’t impact other amphibians as often. This illness can trigger ulcers around the hind limbs and pelvis. Digits may even drop off if the condition progresses. Internal bleeding is another unpleasant symptom of Ranavirus. Some frogs are asymptomatic which can make it tricky to diagnose the infection.
Ranavirus only occurs in warm temperatures. The main transmission sources are physical contact with infected creatures or contaminated water. As a rule of thumb, don’t use pond water for your pet frogs; this drastically increases the risk of infection. There’s no cure for ranavirus, and the mortality rate is very high. The virus is also very hardy and can survive for weeks without a host. Always clean your pet’s aquarium with a strong (but pet-safe) cleaning agent to remove harmful germs and prevent infection.
3. Chytridiomycosis, a Common Fungal Infection
This common fungal infection is rampant across the world. It has even caused the complete extinction of several frog species. Several other amphibians have suffered severe declines because of chytridiomycosis. Also known as Chytrid fungus or Bd, this condition has a horrible impact on amphibians. It affects their ability to adjust their body temperature with potentially devastating effects. The chytrid fungus can also inhibit hydration, which can be lethal.
The most common symptoms include lethargy and rapid weight loss. Some amphibians may shed too much skin or be unable to stand up. Treatment in captivity is possible. The antifungal drug itraconazole can increase the chances of survival and recovery. Owners must bathe their amphibian pets in this chemical disinfection. People can inadvertently spread Chytrid fungus spores to their pets through their clothes. So, you should avoid handling your amphibian unless you’ve recently washed your hands. Even then, most amphibians do not enjoy being handled as pets.
4. Lucke Herpesvirus Primarily Affects Frogs
Lucke’s Tumor is a type of cancer that can emerge from the herpes virus in amphibians. Pacman frogs are especially susceptible to Lucke’s Tumor. Typically, the virus emerges from their breeding pools and spreads through infected urine. The good news is that it’s rare for amphibians to contract this condition if they live in captivity. However, if you capture a wild frog, it may already have the illness. That’s why owners should avoid mixing domesticated amphibians with wild species. There’s a greater risk of contracting and spreading different bacteria, parasites, and illnesses.
It’s not a risk worth taking because Lucke’s Tumor has no cure. Most veterinarians will suggest euthanasia as the kindest thing for your pet. They must take biopsies of the tumor to diagnose the illness, but it’s tricky to do this when the pet frog is still alive. The most common symptoms of Lucke’s Tumor are large growths, lethargy, and bloating. Separate the affected amphibian immediately to avoid the disease from spreading.
5. Metabolic Bone Disease Can Prove Detrimental
Here’s another common illness that affects many amphibians: metabolic bone disease. The usual cause is improper care, such as a lack of calcium or vitamin D. Insufficient UVB lighting can also trigger this debilitating condition. New reptile and amphibian owners must familiarize themselves with their new pet’s requirements. It’s relatively easy to look after amphibians after the initial setup. However, it can have detrimental effects if you don’t provide for them correctly.
Usually, owners can treat metabolic bone disease by changing their pets’ diet and applying the correct UVB light. A well-informed vet will be able to advise owners on what steps to take. Metabolic bone disease presents symptoms including lethargy, dehydration, and a loss of appetite. These signs can trigger other health problems if you don’t act quickly.
6. Obesity Can Result from Overfeeding
This may be the most common amphibian disease. Obesity is a chronic condition, and it can have serious health ramifications. It won’t shock anybody that overfeeding is the main cause of obesity. Pet amphibians will show signs of obesity through weight gain and bloating. Typically, they will keep eating regardless of their energy requirements. Avoid giving them fatty foods like waxworms or pinky mice except as a treat.
Once again, correct husbandry goes a long way in reducing the risk of your amphibian suffering health problems.
