My Russian tortoise has swollen eyes; is it sick or hibernating?

Thanks for reaching out about Zuzu and including photos. This is likely an infection with a hypovitaminosis A component. Offer a warm water soak and gently ladle water over the head/eyes. With a moistened clean washcloth, try and open the eyes. Review diet and husbandry, as being at the Preferred Optimal Temperature Zone (POTZ) for the species will help stimulate the immune system. Diet should include fresh red/yellow/orange vegetables to improve vitamin A intake. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan that could include injectable and ophthalmic antibiotics. Good luck.

Hi, and thanks for your question. That is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or an infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

This can be due to vitamin A deficiency, infection, poor water quality or lighting that is too intense/direct. You can address environmental concerns but you may need a vet to diagnose and treat infection or deficiency. Feeding a commercial turtle food along with fresh veggies and greens (or prey) will help balance the diet. Vitamin and mineral supplementation is also recommended. Click on the link below for more information. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html

Hello Alexis! Thank you for using PetCoach. Without seeing the redness in the eyes myself it is difficult for me to say if there is a problem or not. I can tell you that one of the problems we see with tortoises and turtles is hypovitaminosis A (low vitamin A levels in the blood) which can cause eye problems. This low vitamin A typically happens when the tortoise is not being a fed a diet that is quite right and/or he is not getting the proper lighting. So, I suggest you refer to the link below about how to properly feed and provide lighting for your tortoise. If the eyes become swollen and he can't open them, then I would be worried. ( https://www.reptilecentre.com/info-indian-star-tortoise-care-sheet ) I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Romaine lettuce is not optimal for health or growth. Russians need a high fiber, low protein and calcium rich diet. Variety is key. Dandelion greens, kale, collared greens and turnip greens are recommended over romaine. Fresh, chopped vegetables should be offered and a commercial tortoise pellet can round out a balanced diet. UVB lighting and a heat source, along with calcium and vitamin supplementation, are also required. The shut eyes ma indicate infection or vitamin deficiency, namely vitamin A. Increase enclosure temps by 5-10 F temporarily to aid in recovery. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 30 minutes daily to maintain hydration or to treat or prevent minor dehydration. Have Squirt examined by your vet or an experienced herp vet to diagnose eye infection or injury. You can review additional care information at the link below. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Russian-Tortoise/

He may have been hibernating/brumating. Continue with the daily soaks in warm water or a 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. Get him eating if he isn't already. If the behavior persists, have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose illness.

Continue to treat as indicated by your veterinarian. Offer a varied diet rich in Vitamin A. Broccoli, carrots, cantaloupe, dandelion greens and collard greens are just a few foods rich in this vitamin. Confirm proper temperature. A cold tortoise will not eat. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 30 minutes. This will warm him up and may treat or prevent mild dehydration.