Terrestrial turtles pneumonia
Introduction
Pneumonia in terrestrial turtles is manifested by sudden changes in activity. The pet can run around the terrarium, make obsessive movements, worry and then fall into apathy and freeze without moving. This is panic caused by suffocation attacks. With pneumonia, aquatic turtles move slowly, while swimming, they fall sideways, towards the affected lung. Sometimes they can’t dive and stay close to the surface. Red ears and other amphibious turtles prefer to stay on the ground and avoid water.
Developing
The symptoms of pneumonia in the species of terrestrial and aquatic turtles are somewhat different. Common symptoms for all species include:
- Negative to feed
- Wheezing or whistles when breathing,
- Paleness of the oral mucosa,
- Mucous secretion and blisters of mouth and nose.
Signs may appear in a complex or separate. It is important to understand that, in the case of turtles, even refusing to eat is a sign of a problem. Having noticed at least one of the symptoms, you must consult a specialist. It is dangerous to postpone things, since reptile diseases develop very quickly.
- Second stage pneumonia
If the pneumonia enters the second stage, the turtle condition will be temporarily normalized. But over time, the pet becomes inactive, weakens and loses weight. Often, the turtle cannot put its limbs in the shell. Head drop is characteristic of terrestrial species.
The main symptom of ‘persistent’ pneumonia is the difficulty to breathe. Breathing is periodically accompanied by whistles and clicks. Breathing, the turtle opens the mouth well, stretches or throws the head back. Without proper treatment, the second stage will lead to the slow death of the pet. Pneumonia does not disappear on its own.
Pneumonia needs early treatment. In the first stage, the clock is counted. Sometimes, the disease develops so quickly that the pet dies in 24 hours. Therefore, if you think that not everything is in order with the turtle, do not wait for the development of signs, but immediately contact a specialist. It is better to go for sure in this matter! How to cure a turtle of pneumonia, the herpetologist will say. A herpetologist is a doctor who specializes in turtles. She will have to do the necessary tests, she can also take an radiography and finally dictate an adequate treatment for the condition of this particular turtle.
In no case should you treat a turtle on your own, if you are not a professional. Even veterinarians who have a lot of experience will not be able to prescribe the correct treatment, it is because therapies for reptiles and mammals are very different. Trust the life and health of your pet only to a highly specialized specialist.
The treatment of turtle pneumonia is a long and challenging process. As a general rule, it includes the correction of detention conditions and the elimination of disease causes, medication therapy and rehabilitation. During the entire treatment period, herpetologist’s recommendations must be observed strictly. Even if it seems to him that the turtle has already recovered, the course must be completed, otherwise the disease will return.
conclusion
It is not only about the optimal temperature of air and water, but also the presence of the necessary attributes for the UV lamps, incandescent lamps, etc., Its correct installation and use, maintaining hygiene, a high quality balanced diet, an adequate size of the terrarium and the optimal number of neighbors. Protect your turtle from air currents. The terrarium must be installed far from windows, doors and appliances.
Check the terrarium parameters regularly. They must meet the requirements to have their pet. Any gap can cause a decrease in immunity and subsequent health problems. Always have the contact of an experienced herpetologist and communicate with him if he has any questions.
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