Why Is My Iguana Shedding All Over the Place
Iguanas are fascinating reptiles with unique skin renewal habits. If you have noticed big flakes of green skin around their tank or on your hands after handling them, you might wonder if something is wrong. Shedding is a normal process as your iguana grows, but excessive or patchy shedding may signal underlying issues.
Here is what you need to know about iguana shedding, how to support healthy skin renewal, and when shedding warrants a closer look.
Why Iguanas Shed
Iguanas shed to allow new skin to grow in place of old layers. As they grow, their scales expand too and periodic shedding keeps their skin fit and healthy. This process also helps remove parasites and old debris.
Most iguanas shed in patches rather than all at once. New iguanas tend to shed more often as they grow fast, while adults shed less frequently.
Common Reasons for Shedding Issues
Shedding Too Often
Too frequent shedding may indicate rapid growth, but it can also signal stress or improper environment. If your iguana sheds more often than every few weeks, check and adjust tank temperature and humidity.
Patchy or Incomplete Shedding
Healthy iguanas shed in clean patches. If the old skin remains stuck, especially around toes or tail, it could lead to infection or constriction.
Changes in Color or Dry Skin
If your iguana’s skin looks dull, white, or dry before shedding, their habitat might lack sufficient humidity or UV lighting.
How to Support Healthy Shedding
Maintain Proper Tank Conditions
Ensure temperature gradients between warm basking and cooler areas and keep humidity around 50 to 70 percent to support shedding.
Provide a Clean Soak
Offer a shallow water soak a few times a week to help loosen skin. Use dechlorinated water at body temperature.
Use Nutrition and Supplements
Feed leafy greens, veggies, and insects high in calcium and vitamins. Consult your vet about reptile calcium powder to support skin health.
Offer Rough Surfaces
Provide logs, rocks, and sturdy branches of varying textures. These help iguanas scrub off old skin when shedding.
When to Worry About Shedding
Retained Shedding Around Toes or Tail
This can cut circulation and cause serious issues. Gently soak and help peel off old skin, or seek vet help if it does not come off easily.
Repeated or Harsh Soaking Rutines
Frequent heavy soaking can dry skin or lead to respiratory issues in cool temperatures. Limit soaking to a few times weekly and monitor behavior.
Signs of Illness
If your iguana is lethargic, has decreased appetite, swollen body parts, or red skin after shedding, they might be suffering from a skin infection or other health condition.
Shedding is a natural and necessary part of iguana life. By maintaining proper habitat conditions, offering supportive routines, and monitoring your pet’s health, you can help ensure smooth, complete shedding. Pay attention to the frequency patterns and always be prepared to help gently or seek professional advice when needed.
This is not professional advice.
If you notice retained skin, infections, or behavioral changes during shedding, consult a reptile veterinarian promptly.