Abnormal Behaviours
Owners which own a single animal and are unfamiliar with the normal behavioural repitoire of the species may not be able to recognise abnormal behaviours as there is nothing to compare it to. Because changes in body condition, movement and behaviour can occur very gradually it is even more diffecult for owners to recognise abnormalities, especially as herptiles will instictively disguise signs of injury or pain unless their condition is fairly severe. It is recommended that if suspicion rises that there is somthing wrong, see a vet so any problems may be identified quickly and the necessary corrections made as soon as possible. It is important that owners learn to recognise normal from abnormal behaviours in the species they keep so the animal may be treated quickly, increasing the likelyhood of recovery.
Abnormal behaviours may be exhibited by half closed unfocused eyes, inability or unwillingness to move, extended head and lack of ability to right body position. Many lizards will sit quietly with the head extended, eyes closed and feet planted firmly when being examined, such behaviour is often assumed to be an indication of contentment, although it is more likely to be associated with submission, fear or illness. The lizard may be “zoning out” because of stress of a strange environment with strange sounds, smells and potential predators and may be too ill to respond with curiosity to a new environment. An ill reptile may become aggressive and bite, scratch or whip with the tail at a perceived predator (the owner or examiner). The animal may be closer to death then it would appear, and any stressor such as handling, diagnostic procedures or treatment may prove fatal. As with any species, when natural behaviour is not understood and facilitated, reptiles kept in captivity will experience stress that can result in decline in health.
Abnormal behaviours may be exhibited by half closed unfocused eyes, inability or unwillingness to move, extended head and lack of ability to right body position. Many lizards will sit quietly with the head extended, eyes closed and feet planted firmly when being examined, such behaviour is often assumed to be an indication of contentment, although it is more likely to be associated with submission, fear or illness. The lizard may be “zoning out” because of stress of a strange environment with strange sounds, smells and potential predators and may be too ill to respond with curiosity to a new environment. An ill reptile may become aggressive and bite, scratch or whip with the tail at a perceived predator (the owner or examiner). The animal may be closer to death then it would appear, and any stressor such as handling, diagnostic procedures or treatment may prove fatal. As with any species, when natural behaviour is not understood and facilitated, reptiles kept in captivity will experience stress that can result in decline in health.
© 2014 Cat Read