Information about Gout

[Meeps408]

I have been looking for more information on Gout in bearded dragons and was wondering if someone could possibly fill in some of the information.

What are the causes of Gout?
If determined in the very early stages can it be nullified/reversed?
List of symptoms of Gout?
Are there test I can do at home to determine it is gout?
Where can I purchase allopurisol and black cherry extract? (I tried finding the allopurisol but couldn't find a distributor)


All relevant information is appreciated.
I know some of the information already but as is the internet there is sometimes conflicting info.

 

[CooperDragon]

I'll provide info as I can to the best of my knowledge. I've dealt with it before but am no expert.

Gout can be genetic and recent thinking is that it can be brought on by a diet that is too heavy in protein (or a combination).

If it's caught early, proper medication can keep it under control. It's not curable but can be managed. The black cherry extract can be purchased online or at most health food stores or departments I believe. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Bernard-Jensen-Black-Cherry-Concentrate-Extra-8-fl-oz/27231031 Allopurinol should be prescribed by a vet and can be purchased from a compounding pharmacy such as Diamondback Drugs or Wedgewood.

The first indication of gout is usually swelling of limbs. Especially fingers and joints where the urate crystals form and cluster. I don't know of any home tests you can do to diagnose gout. A simple blood test done by a vet can show high uric acid levels. A sample can be taken from a swollen joint and inspected directly for crystals as well. The medications help flush these crystals out of the system but it requires ongoing treatment.

 

[Meeps408]

Could black cherry extract be a sole treatment to manage gout long term without allopurisol? (Excluding the initial allopurisol to get the gout under control)

Getting my Pebbles blood work done Tuesday to check her uric acid levels.

 

[CooperDragon]

I'm not sure. I think it will help but perhaps not to the extent the allopurinol would. I'd speak with the vet about it.

 

[Meeps408]

What is the quality of life of a bearded dragon with gout?
Normal dragon vs dragon with medication.
How fast can these symptoms onset?
I feel like it was a day and night change is this a normal possibility of gout?

 

[CooperDragon]

I noticed the symptoms slowly. Started with a bump on one hand and then after a few months more bumps along fingers and joints. I'd imagine it shows a bit differently between dragons and at different rates. When Cooper was on Allopurinol he moved around quite normally and didn't seem to have issues so I'd say quality of life is good especially during treatment. Without treatment it is probably painful for them to move because of the buildup in their joints.