Mouth Rot, also known as infectious stomatitis, is a common bacterial infection that affects the mouth and gums of reptiles. It is caused by bacteria such as Aeromonas hydrophila, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Mycobacterium spp.
Symptoms of Reptile Mouth Rot
Mouth Rot can cause a variety of symptoms in reptiles that have it. The most common symptom is white, yellow, or gray patches on the inside of their mouth and gums. These patches may be raised and have a slimy texture. Other signs include:
- Excessive salivation
- Difficulty eating
- Gum swelling
- Bad breath
In severe cases, ulcers may form in the mouth and the reptile may become lethargic and lose weight.
Diagnosing Reptile Mouth Rot
Mouth Rot can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms can be similar to other illnesses. A veterinarian will typically take a swab of the affected area and send it to a laboratory for testing. The results of the test will help determine if the infection is caused by bacteria or another type of organism.
Stages of Reptile Mouth Rot
Reptile Mouth Rot can be divided into three stages:
Stage 1
The initial stage of the infection is characterized by the presence of white, yellow, or gray patches on the inside the mouth and gums.
Stage 2
In this stage, ulcers may form in the mouth and there may be gum swelling.
Stage 3
This is the most severe stage of the infection, and it is known to cause difficulty eating, weight loss, and lethargy.
Treating Reptile Mouth Rot
Mouth Rot can be treated with antibiotics, such as enrofloxacin or doxycycline. It’s important to follow the instructions of your veterinarian when administering these medications. It’s important to keep your reptile’s environment clean and free of bacteria.
This includes changing their water regularly and cleaning their enclosure on a regular basis.
Preventing Reptile Mouth Rot
The best way to prevent Mouth Rot in your reptiles is to keep your reptile’s environment clean and free of bacteria. This includes changing their water regularly and cleaning their enclosure on a regular basis. It’s also important to feed your reptile a balanced diet that contains all of the necessary vitamins and minerals they need.
Finally, it’s important to take your reptile to the veterinarian for regular check- ups to ensure that any potential problems are caught early.