My Chinese water dragon bit his tail. Is this normal or a concern?

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.

Separate them if you can to allow healing. Keep the water as clean as possible to prevent infection. Clean the area daily with a diluted betadine or chlorhexidine solution then allow for a 1-2 hour dry dock (out of the water) period. If the wound doesn't heal or if Sammy becomes lethargic or stops eating, then have your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet perform an exam and administer treatment as indicated.

MBD can be treated, but Dobbie may never be "normal". Ideally, he should be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. If he has MBD, he likely has other issues related to poor husbandry and nutrition. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites. He may need antibiotics to help with the wound on his face. There maybe nothing to be done with the tail other than partial amputation if it is causing discomfort. Your vet can determine this after an exam. With the proper care and support, he can lead a close to normal life. You can review water dragon care at the link below. Kudos to you for rescuing the little guy! http://www.triciaswaterdragon.com/dragoncr.htm

Biting the tail isn't normal, there might be something bothering him that causes him to bite the tail. it could also be a behavioral issue. i would recommend taking him to a reptile vet specialist to get it checked first thing.

Thanks for reaching out about Spike and including photos. By the photo, it is probably due to the betadyne. Continue to monitor flexibility of tail, warms, and a gentle pinch/pain response. These might be indications of the tail dying. Bearded dragons can also dislodge blood clots to the tips of the tail or toes, causing de-vitalization and necrosis. If the condition recurs, a CBC and serum biochemistries are recommended through a veterinarian. Good luck.

By your description, it could be tail rot. Chemmy would need to be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles for confirmation. In the meantime, confirm proper environmental parameters and make sure he doesn't have shed skin strangulation the affected portion of the tail. You can soak the tail in a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution once or twice daily. Prescription antibiotics may be dispensed by your veterinarian if necessary.

As long as it isn't bleeding or spreading, you can try managing it at home. Clean it with diluted betadine or chlorhexidine solution. Let it dry then apply a dab of triple antibiotic ointment. Use paper towels for substrate and change them daily until the spot heals. If it doen't heal, see your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet. For the glass surfing, try rearranging the enclosures. Confirm proper environmental parameters. Survey the area around them for any negative stimuli. Eliminate or decrease any if found. You can tape a tank surround (or paper) on the sides to limit views and reflections.