What kind of problems do box turtles have?
The result is a collection of turtles suffering from sore and swollen eyes, ear abscesses, nasal abscesses and poor skin condition. In a recent survey of box turtle owners, more than half reported that their box turtles had experienced ear and eye problems at some stage in captivity. Many keepers had lost turtles as a result.
Why does my box turtle have white spots on its shell?
Bacterial infections cause a wet rot and fungal infections cause a white rot. Most cases of shell rot occur in aquatic species but land species of box turtles and tortoises can also get it. The signs of wet rot include: a spotted discolored shell that is soft which may or not smell rotten.
When to know if your turtle has an eye infection?
If you notice that your pet has an eye or eyes that are swollen, sunken, crusty, pus under the eyelids or that they have trouble fully opening them, it’s a good indicator that something is not well. A turtle that can’t see won’t eat so it’s important to treat the eye infection or issue as soon as possible.
What to do if your turtle’s eyes are crusted?
In this case, the eyes will look swollen and skin lesions and redness will appear. If the eyes are crusted shut, soak your turtles in warm water at depths of half its body. You can also try using a spray bottle to clear the eye of crust. Depending on the symptoms, you might want to add or subtract a vitamin A supplement from your turtle’s diet.
Why does my box turtle have puffy eyes?
In terrestrial box turtles, eye problems can be caused by low humidity. Use spagnum moss and potted plants and mist daily to prevent problems associated by dry air. When eye puffiness has appeared, misting 2 or 3 times a day may help clear it up.
Why are the eyes of a turtle so swollen?
Swollen eyes make it hard for the turtle to see or eat. This too can lead to starvation and death. Swollen eyes typically occur with an eye infection, and is an early sign of vitamin A deficiency. First of all, this deficiency causes the Harderian glands to swell up.
What can I do for my box turtle’s eyes?
Use spagnum moss and potted plants and mist daily to prevent problems associated by dry air. When eye puffiness has appeared, misting 2 or 3 times a day may help clear it up. Soak your box turtle in clean, tepid water every day.
If you notice that your pet has an eye or eyes that are swollen, sunken, crusty, pus under the eyelids or that they have trouble fully opening them, it’s a good indicator that something is not well. A turtle that can’t see won’t eat so it’s important to treat the eye infection or issue as soon as possible.
