How can I treat my reptile's mouth rot at home? When is a vet needed?

If the mouth rot is minor, you can use a dilute chlorhexadine or dilute Listerine and a cotton swab to gently wipe the affected area twice daily. Increasing temperature by about 5-10 F may also help. If you are seeing "cheesy" discharge, Peter should be seen by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.

Have Anubis examined by an experienced herp veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis. Mouth rot, or infectious stomatitis, typically requires antibiotics. Minor cases can be managed with topical cleaning, usually with diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine solutions, after the area is debrided (cleaned). Serious cases definitely require veterinary attention, antibiotics and supportive care. Increase enclosure temperatures to the upper limit of the normal range for beardies during treatment. A slurry of baby food, vitamins and minerals can be fed. This is easier for the beardie to eat and digest. Fluids can be administered via misting, soaking or subcutaneously​ administered by your vet. Clean and sanitize the enclosure, change bedding frequently and monitor humidity levels. If the infection does not resolve, a sample of tissue should be submitted for pathology, culture and sensitivity.

Thanks for reaching out about Ozzy and including a photo. By the photo, the lesion does not appear serious. Cleaning with a cotton tipped applicator and a mouth cleaning agent like chlorhexidene solution. If the lesion progresses, a veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

It is treatable and often resolves fully. Due to their slow metabolism it does take quite a long time though. Just take Ruby for all her treatments and correct any husbandry issues that may have contributed to the mouth rot. http://www.anapsid.org/stomatitis.html

Mild scale rot can be managed at home by controlling humidity and treating the affected area topically. Keep the enclosure and substrate dry and provide adequate ventilation. Use a diluted betadine solution to gently clean the affected area once or twice daily. Dry thoroughly afterwards. A dab of a triple antibiotic ointment or silvadene cream can be applied after each cleaning. More serious rot or rot that does not respond to conservative treatment should be addressed by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.

From the picture it looks more like inflamed and ulcerated tissue then extra shed, but pictures can be deceiving. I would encourage you to have him evaluated by your veterinarian soon, before he becomes too sick. He will likely need antibiotics. Also double check that your temperature and humidity are appropriate, and that he is getting good night and daylight cycles (too long light cycles can cause stress). A good resource is www.anapsid.org Good luck and I hope he improves soon!

It is highly suspicious for an abscess or mouth rot. Ideally, she should be examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian for confirmation. Treatment may include draining or debridement. Antibiotics will almost certainly be required. In the meantime, increase tank temps by 5-10 degrees F to aid in healing. Make sure she continues to eat and soak her in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte to treat or prevent mild dehydration until she sees the doctor.