Signs of Pain in Reptiles
Reptiles have neurological components to perceive pain that are similar to those found in dogs and cats, as well as other domestic species. This means that they can percieve pain just as sensitively as mammalian species. The shell of chelonians is composed of fused living dermal bone covered by keratinised epidermis, It therefore can feel sensation and pain.
Some indications that a reptile is in pain may include:-
- Anorexia
- Aggression in a normally passive animal
- Absence of normal behaviours
- Avoidance of handling or complete withdrawal
- Lameness, immobility or reluctance to move
- Lethargy
- Polydipsia (excessive thirst)
- Rapid respiration
- Dull or half closed eyes
- Displaying agitation or restlessness
- Easily startled
- Hunched, abnormal or strained posture
- Snakes holding the body less coiled at the sight of pain
- Affected area tucked up
- Continuous swallowing and aerophagia (swallowing air)
- Biting or scratching at an affected area or flicking the foot
- Change in colour (darkening)
- Elevated or extended head
Some indications that a reptile is in pain may include:-
- Anorexia
- Aggression in a normally passive animal
- Absence of normal behaviours
- Avoidance of handling or complete withdrawal
- Lameness, immobility or reluctance to move
- Lethargy
- Polydipsia (excessive thirst)
- Rapid respiration
- Dull or half closed eyes
- Displaying agitation or restlessness
- Easily startled
- Hunched, abnormal or strained posture
- Snakes holding the body less coiled at the sight of pain
- Affected area tucked up
- Continuous swallowing and aerophagia (swallowing air)
- Biting or scratching at an affected area or flicking the foot
- Change in colour (darkening)
- Elevated or extended head
© 2014 Cat Read