Metabolic bone disease

Also called: MBD

Metabolic bone disease (MBD) is a weakening and deformation of the skeleton caused by a lack of calcium or vitamin D3, leading to soft, bendy bones and a "rubber jaw".

In amphibians it comes from unsupplemented feeder insects and, for some species, no UVB. Prevent it by dusting feeders with calcium (and D3 where appropriate) and gut-loading them. Early MBD can be halted; advanced cases are permanent — a vet's call.