RepVet - Practical Aspects Of Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

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Practical Aspects Of Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

The most important aspect of Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) in herptiles is without doubt the prevention. MBD can be avoided by:

Supplying adequate and the correct calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation
Correct exposure to adequate ultraviolet radiation

For more detailed information on the pathology (disease process), dietary history, clinical signs, complications, diagnosis, treatment, supplementation and husbandry go to the Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD) In Lizards section

When preventative measurements is not implemented the disease is almost unavoidable. Hints that must also rise the suspicion for the disease includes:

Young, fast growing animal
No calcium/Vitamin D3 supplementation
No or incorrect ultraviolet lighting
Ultraviolet lighting installed more than 30 cm / 12 " from the main basking spot
Abnormal looking animals compared with the same species
Abnormal movement compared with the same species
Excessive leg movement when picked up
Unable to walk
Permanent open mouth

When any of these events are evident veterinary intervention might already be necessary! It is recommended to see a reptile friendly vet or experienced herpetologist as soon as possible. When no dietary history is available the diagnosis should be made by radiographs.

Treatment should commence immediately. Husbandry and dietary rectification are important and should help in the treatment of the disease.

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