My baby iguana turns black, broke toe. Is it stressed? How to bond?

Without an image or physical exam, it can be difficult to determine exactly what is going on. It could be a bacterial or fungal infection, skin from shedding or trauma (burn, abrasion, etc). Ideally, Iggy should be examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. You can find one using the link below if necessary. http://arav.site-ym.com/search/custom.asp?id=3661 In the meantime, confirm proper environmental parameters. To much humidity can promote bacterial or fungal overgrowth, too little humidity can lead to difficult sheds. Make sure Iggy cannot come into contact with either the heat lamp or UVB light source. Minor infection can be treated with daily cleanings using diluted Betadine or Chlorhexidine. Clean and sanitize the cage and use plain paper towels as substrate to make cleaning easier until the issue is resolved.

Missing nails are common and usually due to being caught or snagged on perches, branches or carpeting. Once healed, they cause no problems. The swollen toe may be due to injury or a bit of skin/shed that is constricting the digit. Soak him in a warm bath to help soften and remove any shed. If the swelling worsens, have him seen by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.

Consider having Bud examined by a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose illness or injury. Iguanas should be kept in a large enclosure that is properly heated. A varied diet complete with a multivitamin and calcium supplement will prevent disorders such as metabolic bone disease. At the very least, the vet can confirm Bud is on the road to recovery. Continue with daily soaks. You can use a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. In addition to darky leafy greens and diced vegetables, offer a commercial diet. Zoo Med and Mazuri offer excellent choices. You can read more about iguana care at the link below. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Green-Iguana/

The black spots look like skin that did not shed properly. I suggest you check the cage temperature and lighting as that is the number one reason they get lethargic. Also make sure her diet is correct and you are giving her calcium supplements. ( http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Green-Iguana/ )

Thanks for reaching out about Green and including a photo. Causes of anorexia in young reptiles can range from improper husbandry/diet, intestinal parasites or infections, metabolic disorders and others. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and assist. Measure and correct temperature, humidity and UV exposure. A warm water soak can possibly stimulate defecation and water intake. A small syringe without a needle can be used to offer a vegetable baby food. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Guan. If he is having difficulty using his limbs, a veterinary visit is highly recommended. Metabolic bone disease can result in clinical signs from weakness to fractures. Environmental temperatures should be in the 90-100 under the basking site and at the lowest 70s at night, therefore they should never feel cold. See your local veterinarian as soon as possible. Good luck.

One of the most reliable sites for beardie care is found at the link below. http://www.anapsid.org/bearded.html You can find additional information here: http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Lizards/Bearded-Dragon/ Provide heat, UVB lighting, water and a balanced diet while she recovers and beyond. Once she is healthy again, acclimate her to your presence slowly then gradually introduce her to handling by holding her for ever increasing periods of time.