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My iguana's jaw is swollen. What are the causes and treatments?

Updated on September 23, 2025

My iguana has a swollen jaw and wouldblike to know what i can do

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on October 23, 2017

A swollen jaw,in an iguana is usually typical of metabolic bone disease. This comes about due to a lack of Calcium and or a lack of vitamin D to absorb the calcium. You will need to take him to a reptile vet to see if he needs calcium injections and vitamin D substitution. In future to avoid this problem you need to feed calcium rich greens, which you can sprinkle calcium from a cuttle bone onto. Then you need to make sure he has a uvb light that he can bask under at least 12 hours a day to get the vitamin D. Then of course everything else such as temperature, humidity and ventilation need to be correct.

2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on February 10, 2020
The swelling may be due to an abscess, foreign body or stomatitis (mouth rot). Ideally, Charlie should be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose and treat the underlying cause. If antibiotics are needed, your veterinarian can dispense or administer them. In the meantime, confirm proper environmental parameters and diet. Keep him warm and as stress free as possible until he sees the doctor.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on August 15, 2018
It may be an abscess or injury in the mouth. He would need to be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles for confirmation and treatment. He may need antibiotics.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT
Licensed Veterinary Technician
Published on September 7, 2017
Antibiotics are dispensed by prescription only. This would require an exam with your veterinarian. This would be strongly recommended to determine the best antibiotic and dose to use for any potential infection. Inappropriate antibiotic use can lead to resistant bacteria and may complicate any underlying conditions. It is likely an abscess but tumor and MBD should also be ruled out.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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