ok, i got Guanda (my iggy) before 5 days. im really happy with her buuut I got a few probs.. when I got her she had pale colour, but ive done my best and gave her alot of calcium, sunlight and baths so now she has a nice greeny colour. Now, the problem is on her toes.. im kinda worried about it aswell . First, shes missing 2 toe nails. after every bath I add Betadine on the toes but nothing seems to happen. Next problem I have is with her other toe... Its swollen and she cant use it at all. When she climbs or walks she cant use it. The toe can be moved in any direction, unlike the other toes. Basically its exactly like a piece of rope and im worried its broken.

Toe nail missing:
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/k...6/DSC01000.jpg
Swollen toe:
http://i276.photobucket.com/albums/k...6/DSC00999.jpg

Hi!, welcome to HC, and I wish you luck with your Ig.
Unfortunately I'm not an expert on Iguanas since I'm a snake person, but I hope I can help with what little I do know. From what I've read, missing a toenail (or a couple) is not usually a big deal for the iguana, since it doesnt need its self-defense mechanisms in captivity, and since you're making sure its not getting infected. As for the "rope-like" nail, supposedly their nails are normally able to bend in different directions, but it sounds like the toe really may be broken and in that case you have to take your Ig to a good herp vet.
Sorry I can't be of more help, but I'm sure with the right care it should work out fine. Good luck

I would suggest a vet visit. There is a chance for infection and the ig might need some antibiotics or some other treatment that you can't provide yourself. When you go to the vet be sure you go to one that is a Certified Reptile Vet. Here is a link to get some names of Vet's in your area. Reptile Forums - The HC Network - Reptile Vet Locator

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From the pictures you've provided, it looks like the toes with missing nails are already healed. There's nothing you can do now. Iguanas can lose toenails for several reasons. Getting it caught on something and being torn out is one common reason. The other common reason is trouble shedding around the tip of the toe. This causes loss of blood flow and the tissues die and fall off.

As for the possible broken toe... take your baby to a vet. At the very least, an annual visit is in order anyway. Be sure to take a fecal sample with you so they can test for parasites.

Welcome to Herp Center!

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~~Steph

"This I believe: That the free, exploring mind of the individual human is the most valuable thing in the world." John Steinbeck

thanks for all that information, i will take it for a check up as soon as posible.