A Case of Respiratory Infection in Captive Trioceros cristatus

The respiratory infections in chameleons are very frequent health issues of captive chameleons. They are unfortunately often lethal, by the time symptoms become evident, it is typically too late for effective intervention.

The attached video provides a textbook example of a respiratory infection in chameleons, showcasing a moderate stage of the condition. This indicates that while the infection is already developed, it is not yet lethal. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of respiratory infection in this case are quite evident. They include: 

1. overall weakness, which is reflected in the animal's slow and unsteady movements,

2. sitting head up, or even stargazing,

3. opening the mouth,

4. excessive salivae/fluid in the mouth cavity,

5. vomiting fluid,

6. forceful intense exhaling, similar to coughing,

7. creeping or puffing sounds while exhaling,

8. visibly enlarged gular pouch due to edema,

9. pronounced, heavy breathing characterized by a slow and intense rhythm. This labored breathing is often accompanied by the visibility of the ribs, indicating struggle due to fluid secretion and excessive moisture within the lungs, as a result of a bacterial infection,

10. the RI might be accompanied by a slight proptosis (bulging the eyes), due to the connection of ocular area with the nasal choannae through ductus nasolacrimalis.

Prevention

Effective prophylaxis involves maintaining proper captive conditions, which include appropriate feeding supplementation, optimal lighting and humidity levels, and mimicking the chameleon's natural environment. All these factors collectively help prevent the onset of this disease.

Causes

Respiratory infections in chameleons are most commonly caused by gram-negative airborne bacteria. However, the root causes often stem from specific husbandry mistakes (and their combinations), such as:

1. inadequate ventilation, 

2. excessively high humidity levels during the day, 

3. overly high temperatures both day and night, 

4. and fogging systems operating above 18°C at night,

5. missing bee pollen in nutrition.

Therapy

If a chameleon does develop a respiratory infection, it is crucial to seek the expertise of a specialized veterinary doctor. They will likely perform diagnostic tests, including sensitivity testing for bacteria, leading to appropriate antibiotic recommendations and supporting treatment modes..

When veterinary care may not be readily available or accessible in a timely manner, there are several layman measures that can be taken to help halt the progression of respiratory disease in chameleons. These steps include:

1. Decreasing Temperature: Lower the ambient temperature in the enclosure and turn off the basking lights to create a cooler environment, which can be less stressful for the animal and might slow down the progression of the disease

2. Adjusting Humidity Levels: Reduce daytime humidity and ensure that nighttime humidity does not reach excessively high levels. Limit fogging or misting when necessary to avoid creating overly humid conditions.

3. Administering Manuka Honey: Administer a small amount of manuka honey 1 to 2 times a day. This can be done by mixing it with water or feeding it directly or smeared over feeder insects. The recommended dosage is approximately 1 mm³ of honey for every 10 to 20 grams of the chameleon's body weight.

These measures can provide temporary support while arranging for veterinary care and should be implemented with caution to avoid further stress to the affected chameleon.

Remeber

It is essential to prioritize prevention over treatment, as the latter is often not successful, particularly given the challenges in diagnosing respiratory infections early. By the time symptoms become evident, it is typically too late for effective intervention. Therefore, please do not compromise on the captive care of chameleons; any lapse can lead to discomfort, suffering, or even death.