My iguana ate its poop. Is this normal or does she need a vet?

Question

My name is Maggie and my Iguana, Li Mai, (I'm uncertain of her exact age, but I'm guessing 1 1/2 yrs. old) and I caught her eating her poop and was wondering is this normal or is this a warning that she needs a vet visit? She's got a big, healthy appetite and she's shedding (again). The photo of her was just taken minuets ago so you can see what she looks like...she's eating Kale at the moment.

Angel Alvarado, LVT · Accepted Answer

Coprophagy is rare in reptiles but it has been observed. It is unknown why they do it. Reasons range from hormonal changes to aggression or simple boredom/curiosity. It is typically a self limiting behavior that may last days or weeks. If she is eating a balanced diet and is behaving normally otherwise, then a vet visit is likely not necessary. Try to clean up her stool as soon as you can to prevent the behavior. Monitor for lethargy, loose droppings or a decrease in appetite. These symptoms would warrant an exam with your herp veterinarian.

My iguana ate its poop. Is this normal or does she need a vet?

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