Various bodily functions are controlled by hormones produced by your iguana’s thyroid gland. When the gland isn’t able to function properly because of a lack of iodine, hypothyroidism occurs. Keep reading to learn all about this condition in iguanas.
Cause
The presence of too many chemicals can prevent the body from using iodine properly. These chemicals are known as goitrogens. They’re found in various foods. Some of the most common foods include brussel sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, and kale.
Signs
If your lizard is suffering from this disease, he will display a range of symptoms. Two of the most common signs include lethargy and inactivity. He will also probably experience slow growth. If the condition is left untreated, the thyroid gland will eventually start to swell up. This will cause your iguana to develop a goiter, or swollen neck.
Also, most iguanas that have hypothyroidism are very tame and easy to handle. This condition can cause normally aggressive iguanas to become quite tame all of a sudden.
Treatment
It’s usually pretty easy to treat this condition. You will need to stop feeding your iguana foods that contain goitrogens. It would be best to eliminate these foods altogether, but reducing them will have a positive effect also. Although some iguanas may need to take iodine supplements, this isn’t usually necessary.
Prevention
Hypothyroidism in iguanas is easy to prevent. Simply eliminate goitrogens from your iguana’s diet. Although you don’t have to stop feeding them altogether, you should only feed them occasionally.
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