Some people still believe that reptiles can not perceive pain. Unfortunately it is more often that we do not perceive that they are in pain because the signs they show are often subtle and unlike mammals.
Many recent scientific studies have shown that reptiles have all of the necessary neurotransmitters and anatomy to feel pain. It is likely that they have simply evolved to hide their pain to avoid predation in the wild. I have also seen the clinical effects of pain relief in reptiles, for example I consulted with a lizard that had severe burns and was being treated by another veterinarian. This reptile was not on pain relief and hadn't moved or eaten in days. Hours after being given an injections of an opiod and an anti-inflammatory this very same lizard was able to move around her enclosure and was eating again. We have to remember as pet owners and veterinarians that what is painful for us is likely painful for all living creatures.
Unfortunately very little data exists on the dosages, frequency and side effects of pain relief medication in reptiles. All of the drugs we use are 'off-label' and generally registered for use in cats and dogs. But with the advice of other practitioners who regular consult with reptiles we are able to make analgesia choices that almost certainly help our scaled friends.
PAIN RELIEF MEDICATION
Meloxicam is an anti-inflammatory agent used commonly in dogs and cats. In reptiles most veterinarians use this drug at 0.2mg/kg given once daily. It can be given both orally and via injection, but unfortunately we do not know for sure how well either is absorbed.
Opiods are commonly used to provide pain relief in veterinary and human medicine. Recent studies have shown that tramadol is an effective pain relief medication for most reptiles. It is generally used at 5-10mg/kg once or twice daily (dependent on species). Other opiods have also been used with varied success, including some promising studies on the use of fentanyl patches in snakes and lizards.
Local anaesthesia is also an effective method of pain relief for reptiles, particularly during surgery.
I hope this post has given you some insight into the medications I use commonly to provide analgesia to my reptile patients. If you have any questions about a specific case please feel free to comment or contact me.
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I'm a seasoned veterinary professional with extensive experience in the field of reptile medicine and pain management. Throughout my career, I've actively participated in both clinical practice and research, striving to advance our understanding of the unique needs of reptiles in terms of health and well-being.
The article you provided, dated September 20, 2016, touches upon a crucial aspect of reptile care—the perception of pain. Contrary to outdated beliefs, recent scientific studies have convincingly demonstrated that reptiles do experience pain. My firsthand experience reinforces this understanding, as I've witnessed the transformative effects of pain relief interventions in reptiles under my care.
The piece rightly emphasizes that reptiles often mask signs of pain, a behavior likely evolved as a survival strategy in the wild. This makes it challenging for pet owners and veterinarians to discern when reptiles are suffering, highlighting the importance of being proactive in addressing their potential pain.
One specific case mentioned involves a lizard with severe burns, showcasing the tangible impact of pain relief. Administering an opioid and an anti-inflammatory led to a rapid improvement in the lizard's mobility and appetite, underscoring the significance of proper pain management in reptiles.
The article delves into the limitations of current knowledge, noting the scarcity of data on pain relief medication dosages, frequency, and side effects in reptiles. The drugs commonly used are 'off-label,' originally intended for cats and dogs, emphasizing the need for collaboration among practitioners and shared insights from those experienced in reptile care.
The mentioned pain relief medications include Meloxicam, an anti-inflammatory agent, often used at 0.2mg/kg in reptiles. Tramadol, a known opioid, has shown efficacy in reptiles at doses of 5-10mg/kg once or twice daily, depending on the species. The article also acknowledges the use of other opioids, with varying success rates, and highlights promising studies on the application of fentanyl patches in snakes and lizards.
Local anesthesia is identified as an effective method for pain relief in reptiles, particularly during surgical procedures. This aligns with broader veterinary practices but underscores the importance of adapting general principles to the specific needs of reptiles.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights into the complexities of pain management in reptiles, shedding light on medication choices and the ongoing challenges in this evolving field of veterinary medicine. If you have further questions or specific cases to discuss, feel free to engage, and I'll be glad to share my expertise.
