Iguana swollen finger and missing claw: Should I be worried?

This could be a result of prior injury, nutritional deficiency or congenital defect. Since Airez is "new" to you, an exam with your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet would be recommended. The missing nails should not pose a problem. If he isn't lame or does not seem bothered by his paw, then it may not be an issue but this would need to be confirmed after a physical exam.

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.

Any small nick or scratch can become infected. He could have scratched himself in or out or the enclosure. If he is behaving normally, you can treat it topically with a diluted Betadine cleanse followed by a dab of triple antibiotic ointment daily until it resolves. See your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian if he becomes lethargic, loses his appetite or if the area doesn't heal, becomes swollen or has discharge.

It could be a hard shed or local infection (bacterial or fungal). Soak or mist him with warm water. Cleanse the area with diluted betadine or chlorhexidine solution daily. If the spot doesn't resolve or spreads, have him examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet.

Continue to medicate Lenny as directed by your veterinarian. You can clean the affected area daily using diluted betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution. Consider a recheck if the toe is swollen after the course of antibiotics is finished.

In most cases, avascular necrosis occurs in toes or the tail. It could be AN, bacterial or fungal infection. An exam would be necessary for diagnosis. For now, provide the proper environment for Zilla, especially adequate humidity. lighting and heat. You can confirm proper environmental parameters using the link below. Daily soaks may help remove any stuck shed. Gently cleanse the area with a diluted betadine or chlorhexidine solution. If necessary, the veterinarian will need to debride the area to allow for healing. Fluker's Repta Boost can be used to supplement the diet until Zilla is eating more o his/her own. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Green-Iguana/

If the swelling has gotten worse since the claw fell off, then Missy needs to see a veterinarian. There may be an infection that needs to be treated (which can get into the bone). Your veterinarian may need to take an x-ray of the foot to determine what the problem is and decide on the best treatment. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.