Infectious and Parasitic Disease of Captive Reptiles and Amphibians, with Special Emphasis on Husbandry Practices which Prevent or Promote Diseases

Abstract. Most reptiles in captivity have come directly from the wild. Hence, the assumption appears to be justified that the majority of infectious and parasitic diseases (Tables I and II) have been imported together with the animals. Outbreaks of disease may be prevented only by optimal quarantine and, probably, treatment of reptiles immediately
after arrival. Any exposure to stress — due to inadequate transport, overcrowded terraria, temperature variation, insufficient feeding and many other factors – may lead to deterioration in the general condition and may provoke outbreaks of latent infection.