Sick axolotl

[Lisa33]

Help plz
Hi I have recently purchased a sick Axolotl from a pet shop that I couldn't leave there. I have 2 Axolotl already who are healthy and happy so my heart went out to this poor guy. He is very underweight, slimy and has strange lumps on his body. I have tried all different types of food but he still refuses to eat. He was on small stones in the shop and was fed on whole mussels. The tank was so dirty. He is now on sand and has a happy set up. I'm new here so not sure how to pot a pic of him. Any help would be much appreciated.

 

[Sufia]

Hi Lisa,

You've probably read this in other threads, but purchasing a sick axolotl (or any animal for that matter) is not recommended. Undoubtedly, seeing a distressed animal tugs at the heart strings, however purchasing one would only serve to perpetuate the issue of poor husbandry and animal welfare. Also, I wouldn't be surprised if certain stores use this as a marketing strategy such that people will take the animal into "better hands".

From what I've read, those lumps could be any number of reasons - e.g. metabolic disorder, prolapse (especially if noticeable at business end), or some kind of growth. I would be inclined to place the axolotl in a container filled with tank water and place both and container into the fridge. Paradoxically, axolotls seem to heal better/faster at lower temperatures.

Regarding its weight - just how thin are we talking? Is the width of its body smaller than the width of its head?

Best bet - go see a vet that specialises in salamander care.

Good luck!

 

[Lisa33]

Thank you. He is separated from my other 2 and yes we are looking into refrigerating him. His body is a lot smaller than his head. Probably shouldn't have brought him but I know I had to do something.

 

[AxolotlChris]

Take an image from above to show the body size

 

[AxolotlChris]

Like I said in your other thread:

I would move the Axolotl into it's own container with cool dechlorinated water with daily water changes.

The Axolotl has likely suffered from poor water quality, temperature, and ingesting gravel.

Depending on its weight, it might be worth fridging it which will allow better healing and to pass any gravel that may have been ingested. Then feeding may be easier, but we will need to see the exact condition of the Axolotl first before the fridging method is used as this will reduce metabolism and the desire to eat, so making sure the Axolotl is in a good enough state to be fridged is important.

 

[Lisa33]

He is separated already in his own tank. Here is a pic from above. Thanks for all your advice.

 

[AxolotlChris]

Seems to have enough weight for a couple days in the fridge, then try feeding after acclimatising him into the tank water.

Use this guide and follow it carefully:

http://www.caudata.org/forum/f46-beginner-newt-salamander-axolotl-help-topics/f48-axolotls-ambystoma-mexicanum/f58-sick-axolotl/85263-axolotl-fridging-guide.html