Is something wrong with my monitor?

Is there something wrong with my Savannah monitor?

• Lately my monitor seems really...lethargic? He's been sleeping a lot in his burrow for the last three days or so. He comes out every now and then, but still sleeps. Today I noticed he did crawl up onto his basking spot and laid there for about 5 minutes, but then he went back to his burrow...where he still is now. I just fed him too, and he was unusually calm / slow. Normally he darts after his crickets and gulps them up but this time, it took him a while to eat it. I can't even think of what could be wrong with him? The ONLY thing I can think that MIGHT be a factor, is he broke three of his toes right at the tip before the talons, and they fell off on his last shed? but I really just don't even know what could be wrong? I don't think he's dehydrated? He has 3 big bowls of fresh water to soak in / to drink that I change daily. And I mist him about once a day. >.< I'm confused and worried. What could be wrong? :(

• Answer:

  First of all. Do not listen to any of these people, savannah monitors are prone to fatty liver disease. Mice is an awfull choice! It's terrible and should not be fed that. But instead a balanced diet. Just let him Get used to his habitat, if it's the case that he's been in there for awhile check the temps, the basking spot should be 130 surface temp well 120 -140 f. The cool side should be around 75- 82 f at night you can drop it down. And the humitdy should be around 60% with 60 being perfect. Let your monitor do its own thing for a bit and you should never pick him up. Start by feeding it with tongs, and if he trusts those the next stage is trying to lead him on to your hand, he will get way more comfortable trust me. Do not feed him mice people make this mistake all the time! If he stops eating for a few days I suggest you take him to a vet. I also highly recommend you join www.herpcenter.com it's a forum site and some of the best monitor keepers are on this. If you have anymore questions regarding savannah monitors, please feel free to email me at [email protected]