Why are my turtles closing their eyes?
A turtle whose eyes are swollen shut might have an infection or ear abscess that needs to be addressed right away. They may not be able to eat until the problem is cleared up. Aquatic turtles especially are sight feeders and face a danger of starvation if their eyes are swollen shut too long.
Do you need to keep an eye on your Russian tortoise?
It’s very important that you are aware of what illnesses Russian tortoises may contract or develop. You need to keep an eye on your tortoise because any changes in appetite, behaviors, or overall routine may indicate an illness is developing. The most common health problems that a Russian tortoise may contract are very minor.
Are there eye problems in tortoises and turtles?
Eye problems in tortoises and turtles are fairly common and not usually too difficult to treat.
What should I do if my tortoise’s eye is closed?
If the tortoise is out in the garden, it could be a sting or a thorn has affected the eye. If the eye is closed and is gummy, it may help to try and get it open with a cotton wool ball soaked in boiled water that has been allowed to cool almost to room temperature. If this doesn’t work, then a visit to the vet is in order.
Where is the third eyelid on a turtle?
If you look carefully you will probably just see the third eyelid in the inner corner of the eye. This is hardly visible at all when the animal is well.
It’s very important that you are aware of what illnesses Russian tortoises may contract or develop. You need to keep an eye on your tortoise because any changes in appetite, behaviors, or overall routine may indicate an illness is developing. The most common health problems that a Russian tortoise may contract are very minor.
Why is my Russian tortoise missing its cuttlebone?
This is typically caused by an antibiotic. Calcium is very important, and if your Russian tortoise doesn’t absorb enough, a deficiency can cause growth problems in the shell and bones. You may notice an abnormal appearance in the shell and legs. By leaving a cuttlebone in the enclosure, you can reduce the risk of MBD.
Can a Russian tortoise Breathe Out of its mouth?
You may notice wheezing and sometimes a mucous discharge from the nose and/or mouth. If you wait until the tortoise is breathing out of its mouth, you’re not in for good results.
What kind of health problems do Russian tortoises have?
Internal parasites are most common with wild-caught and imported Russian tortoises, but captive ones may also have internal parasites, so it’s always a good idea to have a fecal test on new tortoises. Roundworms are common to tortoises and will usually cause diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and a lack of appetite.
