Why does my tortoise have a grey film over its eyes? Is it normal?

Hello there. Yes it does sound like a Vitamin A deficiency. Bathing him in carrot puree is not likely to help. You need to get him some topical eye drops such as these: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=11311&cmpid=07cseYY&ref=6196&subref=AA&cmpid=PLA_G_6196&gclid=CK6lo834ktQCFVKPfgodyvoJKA I am unsure what product is comparable in the UK. If you go to a reptile pet store I am sure they would have something. You honestly need to address the husbandry issues - diet, humidity, lighting, etc. This article may help. http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=17+1797&aid=2589 Reptiles have a slow metabolism so they get sick slowly and hence it will take a long time for them to get well. Don't expect an overnight fix. My best recommendation would be to have him evaluated by a reptile veterinarian so you can get the best treatment plan as he may have more going on than just the Vitamin A issue. I hope this helps. Dr. Amber

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.

Most eye conditions in tortoises are due to vitamin A deficiency. I would recommend taking Ivor to an exotic vet specialist in order to get it checked and treated, he will need a vitamin injection as well as vitamin A eye drops.

Thanks for reaching out about Ketchup. Swollen eyes are likely infections, possibly due to a vitamin A deficiency. A veterinary visit is recommended. She is probably is not trying to hibernate but is weak/sick. Systemic antibiotics and vitamin A supplementation are also probably needed. A thermometer is needed to provide POTZ (Preferred Optimal Temperature Zone), which is require for immune stimulation and recovery. Good luck.

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.

The inflammation of the eyes is usually caused by a vitamin A deficiency. You can purchase drops at most pet stores that can help. Infection is also possible. Ideally, Jade should be examined by an experienced herp veterinarian. She may also have shell rot. This is caused by poor water quality, lack of proper lighting and/or poor nutrition. Gently clean gray spots with dilute Betadine or chlorhexidine solution and a soft bristled toothbrush. Maintain water quality and provide UVB lighting. Feed w quality commercial turtle diet. You can find more information regarding care here: http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html

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!