Why is she this color? Her head and part of her neck have shed.
It sounds like your reptile is going through a natural shedding process, especially given the color changes around her head and neck. Shedding is a normal part of a reptile's life cycle, allowing them to replace old skin with new growth. During this time, it's common for the skin to appear dull, discolored, or patchy until the shedding is complete.
Since she has already shed part of her head and neck, the color change you're noticing is likely due to the new skin being exposed. This new skin can sometimes look different in color and texture compared to the old skin.
To help her through the shedding process, there are a few steps you can take:
1. **Maintain Proper Humidity:** Ensure that the humidity levels in her enclosure are suitable for her species. Adequate humidity can facilitate the shedding process and prevent issues with retained shed.
2. **Ensure Hydration:** Make sure she has access to fresh water at all times. You might also consider lightly misting her enclosure to help with hydration.
3. **Provide Shedding Aids:** Adding rough surfaces like rocks or branches in her enclosure can help her rub off the old skin more easily.
4. **Offer Warm Baths:** Occasionally, giving her a warm bath can help loosen the old skin and make shedding easier. Just be sure the water is shallow and comfortably warm, not hot.
If the color change continues or if you observe any other concerning symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or signs of infection like redness, swelling, or discharge, it would be wise to consult a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles. They can perform a thorough examination to ensure there are no underlying health issues.
If you have any further questions, please don't hesitate to ask. Thank you.
The people I got her from said she's never been really active. Is that normal?
It’s not unusual for reptiles, including your pet, to exhibit varying levels of activity depending on factors such as species, age, environment, and overall health.
Chronic inactivity can sometimes be a sign of health issues such as metabolic bone disease, parasites, or other illnesses. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch and address any potential health problems early.
Given that her previous owners mentioned she has never been very active, it would be wise to monitor her closely for any changes in behavior or health. If you notice any other symptoms or if her inactivity seems to worsen, consulting a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles would be a prudent step to ensure she is healthy and well-cared for.
The previous owners rescued her from someone who had her in a small plastic tub.
It's wonderful to hear that she has found a better home with you. Being confined to a small plastic tub could have contributed to her inactivity and possibly other health issues.
To ensure she has a healthy and stimulating environment, make sure her enclosure is spacious enough for her to move around comfortably. The size will depend on her species, but generally, a larger enclosure is better.
Given her past, it might take some time for her to adjust and become more active.
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