Guides and tips
First aid for pets
Living with a companion animal brings many joyful moments, but also responsibilities. One of the most important, and often overlooked, is the ability to respond correctly in an emergency situation. By knowing basic first aid for pets, we can provide immediate assistance to our pet, relieve its pain, and in some cases, save its life until we can reach the veterinarian.
Guides and tips
Why it's important to know first aid for pets
First aid for pets
Early response makes all the difference:In cases like bleeding, heatstroke, allergic reactions, or choking, the first few minutes are crucial.
Incidents can happen at any time:From an accident at home to an insect sting during a walk or sudden poisoning, every environment hides potential risks.
It reduces stress in difficult times:When we know what to do, we can act more calmly and effectively.
It also protects humans:Proper handling minimizes the risk of injury to the guardian or anyone else trying to help.
Guides and tips
When to intervene and when to immediately take the pet to the vet
First aid for pets
When we can intervene immediately:
There are cases where some basic actions can stabilize the situation or relieve the pet before transportation is needed. Some examples include:
Minor bleeding or abrasions
Insect stings (without signs of allergy)
Foreign bodies in the fur or paws
Mild dehydration or overheating
The goal is to recognize the signs and act without causing additional harm..
When to take the pet to the vet immediately:
Some situations are life-threatening and require immediate professional care. Do not attempt interventions on your own when:
There is severe bleeding that won't stop
The pet has lost consciousness
There are seizures or neurological symptoms
There is difficulty breathing or unusual sounds during inhalation
Urination or defecation is impaired
There is suspicion of poisoning or ingestion of a foreign object
The pet has a high fever or hypothermia (significant temperature deviations)
There is a fracture, spinal injury, or fall from a great height
In such cases, our role is to keep the pet stable, calm, and safe until you reach the vet..
Guides and tips
Basic safety principles for the guardian
First aid for pets
Before attempting to provide first aid, remember, your safety comes first. A pet in distress can react unpredictably.
Approach calmly and with a low voice. Avoid sudden movements.
Use gloves if available, especially if there is blood or bodily fluids.
Immobilize the pet if necessary, in a way that doesn't stress it further.
If it bites or shows aggression, use a towel or light cloth to cover the head or muzzle to protect yourself.
Do not put your hands in the pet's mouth or on its wounds, especially if you're unsure what has happened.
In cases of choking or unconsciousness, only move the pet if absolutely necessary and in a stable manner, avoiding further injury.
Basic first aid kit
First aid kit
Each guardian should ideally have a first aid kit specifically for their pet at home. It does not replace the vet but can be extremely helpful in cases of minor injuries, emergencies, or during transportation to a veterinary clinic. Ideally, the kit should be stored in a stable, accessible location and checked regularly for missing or expired items.
What should a first aid kit include
Sterile gauze, for cleaning and covering wounds.
Self-adhesive bandages (vet wrap), which stabilize gauze without sticking to the fur.
Scissors with rounded tips, for safely cutting bandages or fur around wounds.
Tweezers, for removing thorns, foreign bodies, or ticks.
A special tick removal tool, safer and more effective than standard tools.
Syringes without needles (5-10 ml), for administering fluids or cleaning wounds.
A thermometer for rectal measurement, to check for fever (normal temperature for cats/dogs is 38–39.2°C).
A muzzle or cloth (for dogs only), for the safety of the guardian in cases of pain/panic.
An Elizabethan collar, to prevent licking or scratching of wounds.
A flashlight, for examining eyes, mouth, or wounds in dark areas.
Disposable gloves, for the guardian's hygiene and to avoid infection.
Avoid using human medications without guidance from a vet. Even substances that are common for us, such as paracetamol or aspirin, can be toxic to animals.
An organized and easily accessible first aid kit can make a difference in a critical moment.
Liquids and solutions
Normal saline solution (NaCl 0.9%), for eye rinses, wound cleaning, or wound disinfection.
Hydrogen peroxide 3%, for external wound cleaning (not for deep wounds or sensitive areas).
Betadine solution (povidone-iodine), a safe antiseptic for animals in diluted form.
Alcohol-free antiseptic wipes, for quick cleaning of surfaces or tools.
Ice packs or cooling gel, for reducing swelling or treating injuries.
Useful items
Notebook with emergency numbers, including the vet, 24-hour clinic, and the pet's medical history.
Small towel or fleece blanket, for stabilizing the pet or for protection from cold/shock.
Light muzzle or fabric leash, only in cases of absolute necessity and for a short period.
Small plastic card or stiff cardboard, useful for removing stings or liquids from skin surfaces.
Guides and tips
First aid for pets
Emergency cases
Cats are agile but vulnerable creatures. Early recognition of symptoms and the correct first response can be lifesaving in cases of accidents or sudden illness. Here you’ll find guidance on the most common emergencies in cats, what to look out for, and which first steps to take before seeing a veterinarian.
Guides and tips
First aid for cats
Emergency cases
Cats are agile but vulnerable creatures. Early recognition of symptoms and the correct first response can be lifesaving in cases of accidents or sudden illness. Here you’ll find guidance on the most common emergencies in cats, what to look out for, and which first steps to take before seeing a veterinarian.
Injuries and bleeding
Symptoms:
Visible wound, bleeding, limping, licking the wound, pain when touched.
First aid:
Check if the bleeding is external or coming from the mouth/nose.
Apply firm pressure to the area using sterile gauze for 5–10 minutes without changing it.
If bleeding doesn't stop or the wound is deep, cover it with gauze and bandage, and take the cat to the vet immediately.
Do not use alcohol or harsh disinfectants on open wounds.
Even the calmest cats may react aggressively when in pain or scared. Use a towel or blanket to move them safely without restraining too tightly.
Bites or injuries from other cats or animals
Symptoms:
Swelling, redness, pus, fever, loss of appetite or reluctance to move.
First aid:
Clean the area gently with saline solution.
If there’s an open wound, cover it temporarily with clean gauze.
Avoid pressing or deep cleaning the area.
A vet must assess the wound for possible infection or abscess.
Choking or suffocation
Symptoms:
Breathing difficulty, bluish tongue, silent open-mouth gasping, panic.
First aid:
Carefully check the mouth for foreign objects.
If you see something and can remove it without pushing it deeper, do so cautiously.
If the cat isn’t breathing, begin artificial respiration and call for help immediately.
Do not dela, quick transport is critical.
Breathing difficulty (dyspnea)
Symptoms:
Fast or shallow breathing, wheezing, panting, weakness, open-mouth breathing.
First aid:
Don’t try to open the mouth if the cat is still breathing, even if with difficulty.
Keep the cat calm, upright, and in a well-ventilated space.
Transport immediately for urgent veterinary care.
Poisoning
Symptoms:
Drooling, vomiting, trembling, unsteadiness, dilated pupils, seizures.
First aid:
Immediately remove the suspected toxin.
Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a vet—some substances are more dangerous if regurgitated.
Call a vet or poison control center.
Keep the cat warm and calm until transport.
If possible, take a sample or packaging of the substance.
Burns
Symptoms:
Red or blackened skin, severe pain, peeling, blisters.
First aid:
Run cool (not cold) water over the area for 5–10 minutes.
Do not apply ointments or oils.
Loosely cover the area with clean, dry gauze.
Take the cat to the vet immediately.
Hypothermia or hyperthermia
Symptoms:
Hypothermia: weakness, shivering, cold ears/paws.
Hyperthermia: panting, weakness, red gums.
First aid:
Hypothermia: Wrap the cat in a blanket and warm gradually.
Hyperthermia: Move the cat to a cool place, wet paws and neck with cool (not ice-cold) water.
Do not use hot water bottles or ice directly on the body.
Call a vet if there's no quick improvement.
Panic is a poor advisor. Having a list of emergency contacts and addresses in an accessible place can save precious minutes in a crisis.
Seizures
Symptoms:
Muscle spasms, loss of consciousness, stiff body, drooling.
First aid:
Do not touch the cat’s mouth, she won’t “swallow her tongue” but may bite.
Remove objects nearby to prevent injury.
Note the duration of the seizure.
Once it's over, keep the cat warm and calm until examined by a vet.
Guides and tips
First aid for newborn kittens
Emergency cases
Newborn kittens differ significantly from adult cats due to their sensitivity and dependence on their mother or humans.
Dehydration
Newborns dehydrate rapidly.
First aid:
Check skin elasticity by gently pulling up the scruff, if it doesn’t return quickly, it’s a sign of dehydration.
Seek immediate veterinary help. Do not give water yourself.
Breathing difficulty or airway blockages
Can occur right after birth or from milk going the wrong way.
First aid:
Hold the kitten with the head downward (support the body), and gently rub the back to help stimulate breathing.
Do NOT use force or shake the kitten.
Loss of mother, feeding needs
Without a mother, kittens require bottle feeding.
First aid:
Feed them kitten milk replacer (not cow’s milk).
Use a bottle or syringe, being careful to avoid choking.
Warm the milk to lukewarm, never hot.
Kittens can’t urinate or defecate on their own. After each feeding, gently rub their genital area with a damp cotton ball or wipe (as a mother cat would with her tongue) to stimulate elimination.
Hypothermia
Newborns can’t regulate their body temperature.
First aid:
If the kitten feels cold to the touch, warm it gradually using towels over a heat pad (never direct contact) or a bottle with warm water.
DO NOT feed a hypothermic kitten. Wait until body temperature stabilizes, feeding too soon can be fatal.
If a kitten is hypothermic (cold to the touch, without lively reactions), do not give it any food until its body temperature is stabilized, as there is a serious risk otherwise.
Urination or defecation issues
Newborns need stimulation to urinate or defecate.
First aid:
After each meal, gently rub the genital area with damp cotton or tissue to stimulate elimination.
If no output for over 24 hours, contact a vet.
Injuries from other animals or mishandling
Newborns are extremely fragile.
First aid:
f there are signs of trauma (e.g., bleeding, swelling, difficulty moving), do not apply pressure. Keep the kitten warm and go to the vet immediately.
Do not give painkillers on your own.
Table of common incidents
| Incident | Possible Causes | Symptoms | First Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Poisoning |
Cleaning products, toxic plants, harmful foods |
Drooling, vomiting, lethargy |
Call vet immediately, DO NOT induce vomiting |
|
Wounds / Injuries |
Fights, accidents |
Bleeding, limping |
Apply pressure with clean gauze, rinse with saline solution |
|
Breathing difficulty |
Asthma, allergic reaction |
Open-mouth breathing, rapid breathing |
Keep calm, move to quiet space, urgent transport to vet |
|
Hypothermia / Hyperthermia |
Weather conditions |
Shivering or nasal discharge / Lethargy |
Warm blankets or cool towels, depending on case |
Guides and tips
First Aid for Dogs
Emergency cases
Dogs, due to their curiosity and active nature, are more prone to injuries or accidents. Below are the most common incidents a guardian may face, along with the first actions that can save lives.
Injuries and bleeding
Symptoms:
Visible blood flowing from a wound
Swelling, sensitivity, or warmth in the area
Dog persistently licking the same spot
Weakness or lethargy in case of severe blood loss
First aid:
Apply immediate pressure with clean gauze or fabric.
If the bleeding continues, apply a bandage securely without cutting off circulation.
Do not remove the initial fabric if it becomes soaked with blood; add a new layer on top.
Keep the dog calm and take them immediately to the vet.
Preparation for emergencies starts in daily life practice, touching your dog’s paws, ears, mouth, and belly when they are calm so that, in an emergency, they will accept care more easily without stress or aggression.
Traffic Injury
Symptoms:
Bleeding, wounds, or fractures
Difficulty breathing or abnormal movements
Lameness or inability to support weight on legs
Possible loss of consciousness
First aid:
Approach the dog carefully, may react defensively due to pain.
If they are breathing, avoid unnecessary movement.
If they are not breathing, check their pulse and apply CPR if you know how.
Use a flat and stable surface for transport and move quickly to the vet.
Seizures
Symptoms:
Convulsions, jerking, loss of movement control
Foam in the mouth or trembling
Loss of consciousness or confusion after the seizure
First aid:
Do not attempt to open the dog’s mouth.
Remove objects around them to prevent injury.
Time the duration of the seizure.
After the seizure, keep them calm and take them to the vet for a check-up.
Heat Stroke
Symptoms:
Intense panting and drooling
Redness of gums or tongue
Weakness, trembling, or collapse
Vomiting or loss of consciousness
First aid:
Move the dog to a shaded, cool area.
Wet their body with cool (not cold) water, especially on the belly and paws.
If they can drink, offer a little water.
Take them to the vet, even if signs of improvement are shown.
Choking or airway obstruction
Symptoms:
Inability to make a sound / cough
Drooling, panic, attempts to paw at their mouth
Blue tongue or gums
Fainting in severe cases
First aid:
Check inside the mouth for foreign objects (only if easily accessible).
If you cannot remove it, apply the Heimlich maneuver for dogs (standing or lying on their side, pressing the belly inward and upward).
If breathing stops, begin artificial respiration only if you know how.
Rush them to the vet immediately.
Ingestion of Toxic Substance
Symptoms:
Intense drooling
Vomiting or diarrhea
Tremors, weakness, or instability
Seizures in severe cases
First aid:
Remove any remaining toxic substance, if possible.
Do not induce vomiting without the vet's instruction.
Keep the packaging or a sample of the substance for the vet.
Call the vet or Poison Control Center immediately and transport the dog for treatment.
Keep notes or photos of your dog’s normal appearance (gums, eyes, behavior) so that you can more easily identify signs of a problem (e.g., pale gums, unusual lethargy, or panting) and explain them to the vet accurately.
Guides and tips
First Aid for Newborn Puppies
Emergency cases
Newborn puppies are extremely sensitive and fully dependent on their mother and the careful attention of humans, especially when growing without the presence of their mother. Immediate action in response to signs of trouble can be crucial for their survival.
Refusal to Feed or Lethargy
If the puppy is not nursing or seems weak, it may be at risk of hypoglycemia or hypothermia.
What to Do:
- First, make sure the puppy is properly warmed.
- Feed a special puppy milk formula (not cow's milk) with a bottle or syringe.
- Never feed a cold puppy, warm them first, then feed.
If they seem to be choking or unable to breathe, hold them gently with their head down and rub their back lightly to help remove fluids. Never shake the puppy.
Breathing difficulty
May be caused by aspiration of milk, fluids in the airways, or congenital abnormalities.
What to Do:
- Hold the puppy with its head slightly down (always supported) and rub their back gently.
- If no improvement occurs quickly, contact the vet immediately.
Hypothermia
Puppies cannot regulate their body temperature on their own.
What to Do:
- Place the puppy near a heat source, such as a heated pad wrapped in a towel or warm water bottles.
- Ensure the area is warm (28–32°C during the first two weeks).
- Avoid direct contact with heating elements or hot surfaces.
Loss of mother, need for full care
In the case of abandonment or the mother's death, puppies require feeding, warmth, and stimulation for urination/defecation.
What to Do:
- Use special milk for newborns.
- After each feeding, gently rub the genital area with a moist gauze to stimulate elimination.
- Keep the puppies in a stable and warm environment.
Newborn puppies cannot regulate their temperature. If they get cold, they are at risk of hypothermia. Use a heat pad with a towel or a warm water bottle to keep them warm – never place directly on the skin.
Table of common incidents
| Incident | Possible Causes | Symptoms | First Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Choking |
Objects, bones |
Coughing, difficulty breathing |
Heimlich for dogs, transport |
|
Seizure |
Neurological |
Convulsions, loss of control |
Stay calm, remove objects, time |
|
Insect Stings |
Bees, wasps |
Swelling, itching |
Ice pack, monitor for anaphylaxis |
|
Poisoning |
Foods, plants, medications |
Vomiting, diarrhea |
Immediate vet contact |
Guides and tips
First aid for rodents and rabbits
Emergency cases
Small pets such as hamsters, guinea pigs, rats, and rabbits are especially vulnerable to injuries, dehydration, and digestive problems. Their reactions to pain are usually subtle, so close observation is essential.
Anorexia and lethargy
A sudden refusal to eat is always an emergency. In herbivorous species like rabbits and guinea pigs, constant food intake is necessary to keep their digestive system functioning.
First aid:
Check whether the animal is eating at all or showing complete disinterest in food.
If it hasn’t eaten for more than 6 hours, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Offer fresh parsley or arugula to see if there's any response.
Many medications and products that are safe for cats or dogs can be toxic to small mammals like guinea pigs, hamsters, or rabbits. Never attempt treatment without guidance from an experienced veterinarian.
Respiratory issues
Particularly common in guinea pigs and rabbits. Causes include drafts, dusty bedding, or poor hygiene.
First aid:
Move the animal to a calm, warm area with clean air.
Do not administer any medications without veterinary advice.
Watch for sneezing, nasal discharge, or open-mouth breathing — these require urgent veterinary attention.
Diarrhea or soft stools
Diarrhea can quickly lead to dehydration, especially in small rodents.
First aid:
Remove all fresh or moist food.
Keep the animal warm and clean.
Gently wipe with absorbent paper to avoid skin damage.
Seek veterinary care immediately.
Injuries and bleeding
Often caused by falls, cage accidents, or scratching.
First aid:
Apply gentle pressure to the bleeding area using a clean gauze.
If bleeding doesn’t stop within 5 minutes or the wound is deep, transport the animal to a vet.
Do not use human creams or antiseptics unless instructed.
Dehydration
Can occur rapidly due to lack of clean water or digestive issues.
First aid:
Gently pinch the skin on the back of the neck. If it doesn’t return quickly, dehydration is likely.
Offer clean, lukewarm water via syringe only if the animal is alert and responsive..
If it’s weak or unable to swallow, seek veterinary help immediately.
Small mammals can easily choke if given food or water incorrectly. If lethargic or refusing food, opt for immediate veterinary assessment rather than forcing fluids.
Guides and tips
First aid for newborn rodents and rabbits
Emergency cases
Newborn rodents and rabbits are extremely vulnerable, depending entirely on their mother for warmth, feeding, and care. Early separation or loss of the mother requires immediate and properly guided intervention.
Hypothermia
Newborns cannot regulate their body temperature.
What to Do:
Place them in a box with towels and a hot water bottle or heating pad (never direct contact).
Maintain a stable temperature of 32–35°C for the first few days.
Do not feed them while cold, warm them up first.
Feeding a cold baby delays digestion and increases the risk of death. Warm up first, then feed slowly in tiny amounts using a proper substitute and safe technique.
Dehydration
Dehydration can develop very quickly in newborns due to their small size and inability to nurse.
What to Do:
First, ensure they are warm. If not, follow the steps for hypothermia above.
Once rewarmed, begin hydration with small amounts of species-appropriate formula.
Use a syringe or dropperto feed very slowly, always keeping the baby on its side to prevent aspiration.
Loss of mother, need for full care
In case of maternal death or rejection, babies require full care.
What to Do:
Use a species-specific milk replacer for rabbits or small rodents.
Never use cow’s milk or plant-based alternatives.
Feed small amounts with a syringe or dropper, very slowly and with the baby on its side.
Gently rub the belly after feeding to aid digestion.
Table of common incidents
| Incident | Possible Causes | Symptoms | First Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Injury |
Falls, fights |
Wound, limping |
Clean, isolate, observe |
|
Dental problems |
Poor diet |
Not chewing, drooling |
Soft food, vet visit |
|
Heat Stroke |
Excessive heat |
Weakness, heavy breathing |
Cool area, damp cloth |
Guides and tips
First aid for birds
Emergency cases
Birds such as parrots and canaries are extremely sensitive to injuries, stress, and sudden changes. Even minor incidents can become critical, so any delay or improper handling may cost them their lives. Calmness, speed, and gentle handling are key.
Bleeding (nail, beak, or feather)
Μπορεί να προέλθει από σπασμένο νύχι, φτερό ή χτύπημα στο ράμφος.
First aid:
Gently restrain the bird by wrapping it in a soft towel.
Apply direct pressure with clean gauze.
If the bleeding comes from a nail or feather, you can use flour or styptic powder.
If the bleeding continues for more than a few minutes, take the bird to the vet immediately.
It's important to know how to wrap birds safely in a towel (without pressing on the chest), so you can immobilize them without causing injury or suffocation.
Stress reactions (loud noise, environmental changes)
Intense stress can trigger serious physical reactions in birds.
First aid:
Move the cage to a quiet, dimly lit area.
Minimize movement and noise around the bird.
Speak calmly without trying to touch it, unless it's used to handling.
If the bird remains unresponsive or lethargic, seek veterinary help.
Breathing difficulty
A common and serious condition in birds that requires immediate attention.
First aid:
Place the bird in a warm, quiet space with some humidity (e.g., a bathroom with hot water running).
Do not hold the bird tightly or force handling.
Do not attempt to give food or medication.
Contact an avian vet immediately, this is an emergency.
Collision or fall
Hits against windows or falling accidents are common and dangerous.
First aid:
Place the bird in a quiet, dark box lined with a towel.
Let it rest undisturbed for at least 1 hour.
If it doesn’t regain normal movement and balance, consult a vet for examination.
Poisoning
This can result from foods, plants, paint, or cleaning agents. What to do:
First aid:
Remove any suspicious substance from the environment.
Do not give food, water, or any antidote.
Inform the vet of everything the bird may have eaten or come into contact with in the past few hours.
If possible, bring a sample of the suspected substance to the vet.
Birds are extremely sensitive to stress. Sudden changes, loud noise, travel, or even bright light can lead to fainting or cardiac events. In every emergency, ensure a calm environment and low stimuli before taking any action.
Guides and tips
First aid for baby birds
Emergency cases
Baby birds (especially in pet species like parakeets, canaries, etc.) are extremely sensitive and vulnerable to environmental risks. Immediate and proper care can be critical for their survival.
Dehydration or inability to feed
Baby birds have a fast metabolism and require frequent feeding (every few hours).
What to Do:
If you suspect dehydration (loose skin, weakness, sunken eyes), contact a vet immediately.
Attempt hydration with a few drops of bird-specific electrolyte solution. Never pour water directly into the beak, as this may cause choking.
If the mother is not feeding, begin feeding with appropriate hand-rearing formula using a syringe or spoon, always carefully and from the side of the beak.
Fall from the nest or injury
Falls are common accidents, especially as they begin to move or in unstable nests.
What to Do:
Check for visible injuries or misaligned wings/legs.
Move the chick to a warm, safe environment.
If there’s bleeding or it can’t move, take it to a vet immediately.
Hypothermia
Baby birds can’t regulate their body temperature.
What to Do:
Place the chick in a small box lined with towels and provide gentle heat (no direct contact — maintain 32–35°C / 89.6–95°F).
Avoid sudden temperature changes and overheating.
Chicks can easily choke if fed in the wrong position (e.g., lying on their back) or with food of the wrong texture (like adult bird food). The correct position is upright, with body support, and feeding from the side of the beak.
Table of common incidents
| Incident | Possible Causes | Symptoms | First Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Feather injury |
Fall, fight |
Drooping wing, bleeding |
Stabilize, clean wound |
|
Breathing difficulty |
Drafts, infection |
Beak open, puffed up |
Warm room, isolate, no food, contact vet |
|
Diarrhea |
Diet, infection |
Watery droppings |
Remove fruits, monitor, consult vet if persistent |
Guides and tips
First aid for reptiles
Emergency cases
Reptiles have unique physiology and often react differently to injuries or illnesses. In addition, they tend to hide symptoms until it's too late, so close observation is essential.
Loss of appetite or refusal to eat
Lack of appetite may be due to incorrect temperatures, stress, internal parasites or underlying health issues.
First aid:
Check the temperatures in the terrarium. If they are outside the ideal range, adjust them immediately.
Make sure the animal has access to clean water and appropriate UV lighting.
If refusal to eat continues for more than 3–4 days (or less for smaller species), seek veterinary advice.
Most reptile emergencies are caused by improper environmental conditions. A thermometer and hygrometer are essential prevention tools.
Skin or shell injuries (turtles)
These are often caused by sharp objects in the habitat or aggressive interactions with other reptiles.
First aid:
Clean the area with lukewarm saline solution or diluted Betadine.
Cover with sterile gauze and keep the animal in a clean environment to avoid infection.
If the wound is deep, bleeding, or the bone/shell interior is visible, transport the reptile to a vet immediately.
Respiratory problems (wheezing, mouth breathing, foam)
These are commonly linked to low temperature, incorrect humidity, or bacterial infections.
First aid:
Raise the ambient temperature (within the species-specific safe range).
Isolate the reptile in a clean, warm environment.
Do not attempt to give medication yourself. Immediate veterinary care is required.
Egg retention (female lizards or turtles)
If you notice a swollen abdomen, lethargy, and no interest in digging, egg-binding may be present.
First aid:
Maintain optimal temperatures and provide digging substrates.
If the eggs are not laid within 24–48 hours or there are signs of pain, consult a vet urgently.
Guides and tips
First aid for newborn reptiles
Emergency cases
Τα νεογέννητα ερπετά χρειάζονται ιδιαίτερη φροντίδα τις πρώτες ημέρες, καθώς είναι εξαιρετικά ευάλωτα σε αλλαγές περιβάλλοντος και ακατάλληλο χειρισμό.
Dehydration
Newborn reptiles require special care during their first days, as they are extremely sensitive to environmental changes and improper handling.
What to Do:
Increase humidity in the terrarium by misting the walls with lukewarm water.
Place the reptile in a shallow bath of lukewarm water for a few minutes.
Do not try to force it to drink.
Feeding difficulties
Refusal to feed may be due to stress, low temperature, or underlying health issues.
What to Do:
Check that both temperature and lighting are correct.
Do not force-feed, this may cause choking.
See a reptile vet if the issue continues.
Difficulty hatching
Some newborns fail to properly exit the egg.
What to Do:
Do not try to break or remove the egg manually.
Maintain high humidity and stable temperature in the incubation area.
If you notice stillness or signs of distress, contact a specialized vet immediately.
Newborn reptiles are extremely sensitive and prone to stress. Let them adapt to their environment without unnecessary handling, loud sounds, or intense lighting.
Table of common incidents
| Incident | Possible Causes | Symptoms | First Steps |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Dehydration |
Low humidity |
Wrinkled skin, lethargy |
Lukewarm water bath |
|
Burns |
Heating elements |
Redness, blisters |
Cool the area, move to clean environment |
|
Shedding problems |
Dry conditions |
Retained skin |
Increase humidity, gently rub if needed
|
Guides and tips
Conclusion
Basic pet first aid knowledge can never replace professional veterinary care, but it may prove critical in the first moments of an emergency. Whether it’s a dog, cat, bird, rodent, reptile or newborn animal, prompt and correct intervention can save lives or prevent serious complications.
Proper preparation, both in knowledge and in equipment, is the key to staying calm and supporting your pet during those crucial first moments. A well-stocked first aid kit, regular practice of essential techniques (such as rescue breathing or safe immobilization), and ongoing education can make all the difference.
The goal is not to become an expert, but to stay calm, prepared and effective when your animal needs you the most.
