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==Coelomic cavity (thorax/abdomen)==
==Coelomic cavity (thorax/abdomen)==
[[Image:Gecko_abdominal.jpg|300px|thumb|right|'''Small lizards such as leopard geckos are delicately restrained for abdominal palpation.''' (Copyright © RVC and its licensors, Sean Bobbit, Sue Evans, Andrew Devare and Claire Moore. All rights reserved)]]
Requires a silent examination area for auscultation. Place stethoscope ventrally between forelimbs or laterally in axilla region for heart and lateral thorax for lungs. A thin, damp cloth between stethoscope and scales aids auscultation. Cardiovascular problems are not uncommon due to calcification of bronchi and major arteries.
* Requires a silent examination area for auscultation. Place stethoscope ventrally between forelimbs or laterally in axilla region for heart and lateral thorax for lungs. A thin, damp cloth between stethoscope and scales aids auscultation. Cardiovascular problems are not uncommon due to calcification of bronchi and major arteries.
* Palpate abdomen for abnormal swellings and masses (e.g. foreign bodies, cystic calculi, constipation, enlarged kidneys). Enlarged kidneys may be palpated ventrally just cranial to the pelvic inlet.
* Smaller lizards (e.g. geckos) can be transilluminated. A powerful light (e.g. endoscope) held against the body of smaller lizards or inserted into the oesophagus or cloaca of larger lizards. Care is necessary if light source produces heat. It is possible to visualise internal structure (e.g. coelomic masses).
==Cloaca / tail base==
==Cloaca/tail base==
Check that the cloaca is free from faecal staining, discharge, oedema, erythema, masses or infection. The cloaca can be examined in larger species with a lubricated, gloved finger.
Check that the cloaca is free from faecal staining, discharge, oedema, erythema, masses or infection. The cloaca can be examined in larger species with a lubricated, gloved finger.