Reptiles can become infected with mites, which are tiny parasites that feed on their host’s skin and blood. Mites can cause a variety of health problems in reptiles, including anemia, dehydration, and even death. Mites can also spread diseases from one reptile to another.
The most common type of mite found on reptiles is the reptile mite (Ophionyssus natricis). These mites are dark yellowish, reddish-brown, or black and feed on their host’s blood. They can be found living in the crevices of a reptile’s skin, or in their bedding or cage.
Mites can be difficult to detect, because they are very small and often go unnoticed until an infestation has become severe.
Symptoms of Reptile Mites
The most common symptom of mites in reptiles is itching and irritation. Reptiles can also have signs of:
- Anemia
- Dehydration
- Weight loss
- Lethargy
In severe cases, mites can cause respiratory distress or even death.
Diagnosing Reptile Mites
If you suspect your reptile has mites, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian for diagnosis. Your vet will be able to identify the type of mite and recommend the best course of treatment.
Stages of Reptile Mites
Reptile mites typically go through four stages of development: egg, larva, nymph, and adult.
Stage 1
The eggs are laid by the female mite and can take anywhere from one to three weeks to hatch.
Stage 2
Once hatched, the larvae will feed on their host’s skin for several days before molting into a nymph stage.
Stage 3
The nymphs will then feed for several more days before molting into an adult.
Stage 4
The adult mites will then feed on their host for several weeks before laying eggs and starting the cycle again.
Treating Reptile Mites
The best way to treat reptiles infected with mites is to use a topical insecticide or miticide. These products are available at pet stores and can be applied directly to your reptile’s skin. It’s important to follow the directions on the product label carefully, because some products can be toxic if used incorrectly.
It’s also important to thoroughly clean your reptile’s cage and bedding after their treatment to ensure all mites are eliminated. In most cases it’s better to just throw all the old bedding away.
Preventing Reptile Mites
The best way to prevent mites from infecting your reptiles is to keep their environment clean and dry. Regularly cleaning their cage and bedding can help reduce the risk of mites.
It’s also important to quarantine any new reptiles before introducing them into an existing reptile collection. By quarantining new pets until you can make sure they’re healthy, you’ll help prevent the spread of mites from one reptile to another.