Eye Problems With Turtles

Turtles have sensitive eyes that can suffer from two distinct conditions--bacterial eye infections and swollen eyelids, sometimes simultaneously. Without attention, either can be potentially serious. Turtles that are unable to see cannot locate their food, a plight that can literally cause them to starve. Bacterial eye infections can spread to the nasal passages, leading to respiratory tract infection. Both conditions require prompt treatment.

  1. Potential Problems

    • The indications are clear when a turtle needs to be examined. Take him to the vet if he rubs his eyes, is wheezing, a membrane covers the eye, or the lid is swollen or nearly shut. Injury, sand beneath the eyelid, and poor water quality or nutrition issues can cause infection. Inspect his conditions to determine the source of the problem. Common causes of recurring infections are a tank that is too small, a diet that isn't appropriate, or water that isn't warm enough.

    Diagnosis

    • Bring your turtle to a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles to determine the nature of the illness and the treatment needed. Since swollen eyelids usually indicate a vitamin A deficiency, he might need an immediate dose of vitamin A because his diet isn't balanced. This will typically be given by injection. Once a bacterial infection is diagnosed, the proper antibiotic will be prescribed. Because eye issues in turtles can be fatal, you will want a veterinarian to diagnose the problem so appropriate treatment can be administered at once.

    Home Treatment

    • Once the turtle has come home, you might need to bathe the eye and give vitamin A drops orally as prescribed by the vet. Clean water is necessary to keep turtles healthy. Raising the water temperature to between 80 and 85 degrees often brings improvement. Keep the water warm, clean, and free of leftover food. At the same time lower the stress level. Refrain from handling your turtle during illness, and give him a quiet area free from disturbances to help him rest.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Your vet might recommend you add "Stress Coat" fish medication to the water during the recovery period. Other options include eye drops appropriate for turtles either prescribed by the vet or from your local aquarium. Check your turtle's living conditions to ensure he is receiving optimum care. In addition to a balanced diet, turtles require vitamins and calcium for a healthy shell. Half of their diet should consist of vegetables, a quarter animal protein, and the final quarter good quality commercial pellets. They also need calcium supplements.

    Considerations

    • Taking time to give your turtle the environment he needs makes the difference between a healthy turtle and one who has repeated health problems. A balanced diet, clean living conditions, and an appropriately sized tank are basic requirements for a healthy turtle.