From time to time, a reptile will have a problem while shedding. This isn’t the normal color change or puffy, milky eyes, but other things that can go wrong, like patches that don’t come off properly. The problems may be new, or they may be remnants of previous sheds.

Things that can cause the problem

These problems can be directly related to the skin, or they can come from external sources, such as parasites. Shedding will not cause parasites, but they can aggravate the skin during shedding and even cause disease. Other factors may include malnutrition and lack of moisture.

What to do with problems

For patches that resist coming off, soaking the pet in warm water may help. You can do this several times a day until you see results. You can also create a hide large enough to put a warm, damp cloth in and encourage your pet to stay there for a while.

It is important to keep an eye on your exotic pet for these patches. They interfere with the new skin coming in and can even suffocate the skin, limbs and fingers. This can cut off blood flow and lead to loss of an appendix. Just be sure to allow plenty of time for the shed to complete before assuming there’s a problem.

How to make sure your pet sheds properly

The best way to avoid molting problems is to provide your snake, lizard, or other reptile with plenty of moisture, as well as the right foods and supplements. Regular misting of the cage can help, as can dusting the food with vitamin and mineral supplements. Always be sure to check the animal for parasites, whether it is moving or not, and always keep the cage as clean as possible.

Keep in mind that if your pet is new to you, he may have to go through a period of acclimation before his natural process returns to normal. If you have an episode or two where shedding is a problem, just know that it may go away after a couple of months or so.

There really isn’t much more to it than that. If your reptile is having trouble molting and these remedies don’t work, your best bet is to see a vet who works with snakes, lizards, or turtles. He or she may be able to give you tips or some plugins to help you with the problem. If something worse happens, the vet will know how to respond effectively.