Egg binding (also known as dystocia) occurs when a female ackie monitor is unable to lay her eggs.

Symptoms

• Loss of appetite
• Inactivity
• Straining
• Swollen cloaca

Cause

• Substrate not deep enough to create suitable nest site
• Dehydration
• Obesity
• Poor muscle tone
• Illness
• Abnormal reproductive anatomy

Treatment

Egg binding is life-threatening if left untreated, and can affect female ackie monitors even when they have not mated with a male. If you suspect egg binding in your ackie, make an appointment with an experienced reptile veterinarian immediately.