Exotic Animal Formulary5

Spindly leg
(especially insecticides), neoplasia, drug
reaction
Infectious agents: iridovirus, larval cestodes or
trematodes, subcutaneous nematodes
Noninfectious causes: nutritional secondary
hyperparathyroidism, malnutrition (e.g.,
hypovitaminosis B, protein deficiency, iodine
deficiency, trace mineral deficiency, diet of
parents, outdated food or vitamin
supplements), toxicosis (ammonia, chlorine,
nitrites), water quality (pH, hardness,
temperature), crowding, poor illumination,
trauma, genetic, hybridization
chemistries
Biology review of species
in question;
husbandry review
(water quality tests,
temperature); diet
(inspect actual food
items and
supplements in
original containers);
PCR tests for
ranavirus and
chytrid; necropsy;
physical exam of
cagemates and
parents; consider
euthanasia and
complete necropsy of
one or more
cagemates
a
This is based on the previous author’s (Dr. Kevin M. Wright) clinical impressions of the most common
underlying etiologies for gross symptomology; a patient’s differential list should be a comprehensive
review of all potential etiologies regardless of likelihood. Edited by current authors.
b
Suggested diagnostics are presented in prioritized order.
Table 3-10
Selected Disinfectants for Equipment and Cage Furniture. 40,a
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis
• Sodium hypochlorite (household bleach) 1% for 1 min contact time
• Ethanol 70% for 1 min exposure time
• Benzalkonium chloride 1 mg/mL for 1 min contact time
• Desiccation and exposure to 50-60°C (122-140°F) heat for 30 min
• Exposure to 1:1000 quaternary ammonium compound Quat-128 (Waxie Sanitary
Supply, San Diego, CA; 800-995-4466; www.waxie.com) for 30 sec; this contains 6.8%
didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC) as the active ingredient
Ranavirus
• Nolvasan (chlorhexidine) 0.75% for 1 min contact time
• Sodium hypochlorite (household bleach) 3% for 1 min contact time
• Virkon S 1.0% for 1 min contact time
• Desiccation and exposure to 60°C (140°F) heat for 15-30 min
a
In order to increase efficacy of disinfectants, rinse all organic material and debris from the surface
before applying disinfectants.
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