My chameleon's toe is injured. What should I do about exposed bone?

He may have injured it somehow or a bit of stuck shed could have strangulated the tissue. Ideally, he should be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. In the meantime, soak the toe/foot in diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) a couple times a day. Dry it thoroughly afterwards. Use plain paper towels in the enclosure until he heals.

That is quite a serious wound. How it happened may never be known. Ideally, she should be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. She likely needs antibiotics and possibly pain medication. She may lose the end of her tail. Increase tank temps temporarily to aid in recovery. Gently clean the area once or twice daily with diluted Betadine of chlorhexidine (Hibiclens). If she will eat more, increase the amount of food being fed. Between egg laying and trying to heal a wound, she will need significantly more calories to maintain weight and good health. Increase calcium supplementation as well.

Thanks for reaching out about Charlie and including a photo. Sorry for the situation. A veterinary visit is a must. Open wounds need to be cleaned and closed. Antibiotics and analgesics are recommended. Concerns would be he was chewed on by something, so outdoor time should be limited to daytime only. No access to dirt to decrease potential of further infection. Clean now by soaking in warm tap water. See a veterinarian, ASAP. Good luck.

If you can see bone, Alduin will need to be examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. The tip may need amputation to prevent infection. Keep the cage clean to prevent contamination by stool. Keep him hydrated and make sure he is eating.

The white spot on your Veiled Chameleon's casque looks to be shedding skin that has not come off yet. Mist him with warm water to aid in shedding. It is common for lizards to lose toes. What likely happened was some shedding skin did not come off properly and restricted blood flow to the digit resulting in the loss. As long as it is healed up, there is no cause for concern. The darkening of his colors may indicate stress. Survey the area in and around the enclosure for any negative stimuli. This may include loud noises, strong vibrations, bright lights or cold drafts. Reduce or eliminate any if found. You can review chameleon care at the link below. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Veiled-Chameleon/

Thanks for reaching out about Harley and including photos. The toe appears to be non-viable tissue. The toe should be amputated to prevent further spread of infection found in dead tissue. Keeping the environment clean by removing sand, bark or other particulate substrates and replaced by soft towels to prevent further contamination. Removing feces and urates as soon as possible. Schedule a veterinary visit to help. Good luck.

Without an image or physical exam, it is difficult determine what is happening to Tye's tail. Serious rot (bacterial infection) or fungal infection should be addressed by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. Clean and sanitize the cage and change out the bedding. Use paper towels or plain butcher paper to make cleaning easy. You can gently clean the affected area using a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution but he may need systemic treatment to recover.