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Kidney failure is a relatively common disease in pet iguanas. It occurs when the kidneys have been damaged so badly that they are unable to perform their duties properly. This causes an imbalance of chemicals and minerals in the body. Even worse, it allows toxins to buildup in the bloodstream. So, what exactly causes kidney failure in iguanas?

Causes

The most common cause is an improper diet. Iguanas can’t digest animal proteins and fats very well, so kidney failure can eventually occur if they are fed that. Other common causes include using antibiotics for extended periods and frequent dehydration. Sometimes, your iguana can develop kidney failure for no known reason.

Signs

Iguanas suffering from this condition exhibit a variety of signs. They include weakness, lethargy, and loss of appetite and weight. It’s also common for these lizards to lose use of their limbs. Other common symptoms of this disease include constipation, swollen abdomen and throat, and increase thirst and urination.

It’s a life-threatening situation when toxins buildup in the bloodstream. Therefore, it’s important that iguanas receive prompt veterinary care when they are suffering from kidney failure. After symptoms appear, they can die within a couple of days.

Treatment

If caught early enough, there’s a good chance the iguana can be treated successfully. However, treatment is usually very expensive. Uric acid builds up in the body during this condition. Therefore, phosphate binders will need to be injected to remove it. Your iguana will also need to be rehydrated.

This can be done via intravenous injections or oral intake of fluid and electrolytes. Sometimes, it’s necessary to give calcium supplement to correct an improper level of calcium in the body. Anabolic steroids may also be in order.