Every reptile deserves good care, and most hobbyists are enthusiastic about providing it in an animal’s enclosure. But what happens when an accident occurs? All your good preparation for a suitable enclosure won’t go far if you don’t have backup supplies on hand to deal with accidental injuries or sickness. Creating a reptile first aid kit is smart, whether you have one reptile or 20.
All exotics are unique, and some can fall prey to injuries (like dropped tails) that are unheard of in other species. That being said, there are a few items that are smart to include in any exotic first aid kit.
Betadine
A general-purpose antiseptic, Betadine (or povidone-iodine) is a must for any reptile first aid kit. This dark brown liquid can inhibit infections; that’s why it’s even used on humans prior to surgery to clean the surgical area.
Most reptiles benefit from topical Betadine application when they’ve suffered some kind of scratch that has opened a wound in the skin. Betadine can serve as a way to sanitize the area until the animal can be seen by a vet.
To apply Betadine, dilute it in water until the water is a light brown, tea-like color. Then, using a Q-tip, soak up some of the solution and gently dab it onto the injury. Try to avoid getting Betadine in your animal’s mouth; while it is not toxic, it can strain the kidneys or cause gastric upset if too much is ingested.
A+D Ointment
For hard-scaled reptiles that have a tough time shedding sometimes, such as iguanas and tegus, A+D (or A&D) ointment can be a lifesaver. This waxy substance helps to lock moisture into the skin so that the retained shed can lift. While it is no substitute for good husbandry and sufficient humidity, it can break stubborn shed in a pinch and is also useful as a mechanical barrier to protect injuries, such as constriction caused by retained shed.
Be sure to purchase plain A+D ointment, not the scented variety. The only ingredients should be cod liver oil, mineral oil, wax, and paraffin. While some fragrance may be present, avoid brands with specific marketed fragrances such as vanilla.
To apply A&D ointment for stuck shed, moisten the problematic area. Then, coat it in ointment and allow the reptile to keep the ointment on until it rubs off on its own. Avoid contact with the facial area, as wax can inhibit a reptile’s ability to breathe.
Silver Sulfadiazine
Also called Silvadene, silver sulfadiazine is an ointment that stops bacteria from entering a wound. It creates a barrier that is especially good for keeping burns safe. Apply it like normal ointment, gently rubbing it onto the skin. However, avoid allowing the reptile to ingest it.
Most vets can provide a small container of silver sulfadiazine upon request. This container can last for many years, as a little goes a long way.
Pedialyte
If a reptile becomes dehydrated, or if you acquire a new reptile that is wild-caught or rescued, having Pedialyte on hand can be a (literal) lifesaver. Pedialyte is an electrolyte drink that replenishes the body’s hydration and some essential minerals. While it is often used for babies, it can also benefit reptiles in appropriate doses.
Always dilute Pedialyte in a 1:1 ratio with water. Provide the reptile with a small syringe of diluted Pedialyte solution into the mouth according to their size. It is not recommended to soak reptiles in Pedialyte or to make it their only source of hydration; it is a temporary measure and should be done alongside guidance from a veterinarian.
Remember: Pedialyte spoils quickly once opened! It is smart to get a small container rather than a large one, as you are unlikely to be able to use much at once.
Styptic Powder
Plenty of reptiles file their claws down on their own, but for those who need occasional maintenance trims, styptic powder is always a good option. This material is an anti-bleeding agent that can stop small wounds from bleeding very quickly. That’s why vets keep it around when they are trimming animal nails—so that any accidental cuts to the quick can be treated immediately.
Apply styptic powder if you have accidentally trimmed your animal’s nails too short and caused minor bleeding. Once the bleeding stops, monitor the site of the injury and apply more powder as needed. If the bleeding continues for more than half an hour or seems severe, seek veterinary attention.
Gauze and Wound Tape
No first aid kit would be complete without wound treatment options, such as gauze and wound tape. If your animal has suffered a severe injury, these materials can stanch the bleeding until you reach the vet office. Be sure to select wound tape that adheres to itself and does not contain glue, as glue can harm a reptile’s skin.
Granulated Sugar
One of the most common medical issues that keepers face is the risk of prolapse—when an internal organ or tissue, such as the rectum or uterus, is pushed outside the body. This is a veterinary emergency, but keepers can set their animal up for a better outcome by being prepared.
Creating a bath of sugar water (one teaspoon to every three ounces of water) can help to draw fluid out of the prolapsed tissue, helping it to stay small. Otherwise, it can become large and swollen, interfering with blood flow. Transporting the reptile to the vet in this sugar bath when possible can keep the prolapsed tissue healthy until it can be returned to its proper place.
A Carrier
If your exotic pet has suffered an injury or accident, going to the vet is always wise—and you don’t want to be scrambling at the last minute for a carrier or box to fit your pet in. Keep a comfortable vet carrier alongside your first aid kit so that if you need to head out the door, you have everything you need.
Prepare the carrier in advance, including securing the seams with zip-ties if you have a digging-oriented species who might pop the carrier apart. If you are using a small bag instead, bring some way to secure it closed, whether by clasps or a zipper if it has one. Line the carrier with a textured towel so that your animal has something to hold onto and brace themselves against during the journey. This can help them feel more secure and less stressed in this already stressful situation.
No one wants to make an emergency trip to the vet with their animal or find blood in an enclosure, but accidents happen. Having a first aid kit at the ready can make these situations much more approachable and provide better outcomes for your animal thanks to your quick response.