My turtle ate gravel. What should I do if he's pooping stones?

It is entirely possible he ingested gravel/pebbles prior to his arrival home. As long as he is passing them, there is no cause for concern. Monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite, loose stool or a decrease in stool production.

Hello. Stones can either pass through the system without too much of an issue, or they can cause a huge problem and require surgery to take out. Unfortunately you are at a waiting game. If Paddy is eating/drinking, and normal in energy, then just keep watching him and don't worry. If he is fine after a few days you are OK. If Paddy starts vomiting, stops eating, is weak, sore when you touch his abdomen, or is having trouble pooping or not passing any feces, they you need to get him to a vet ASAP for some x-rays and possible surgery. Best of luck!

It will likely pass. The symptoms of an issue to look out for including vomiting/especially within an hour of eating, straining to defecate, not popping. If you are willing to sift through each bowel movement until you find the small stone, that will provide additional peace of mind. Otherwise screening abdominal x-rays at your vet can determine whether the stone is stuck somewhere and are recommended especially if vomiting/in appearance or straining to defecate are noted. Good luck!

Thanks for reaching out about maria Conchita. Repeated regurgitation is suggestive of an gastric or intestinal blockage. Ingested substrate (rocks) or large food items are all possibilities. A veterinary visit is recommended. Good luck.

The increased in urination and sort stool ay be due to an increase in fluid intake or eating succulent fruits and vegetables. The soft stool can also be due to intestinal parasites. Bladder stones are also possible and would cause straining to urinate which could in turn cause a prolapse of the penis. An exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles would be recommended. Bloodwork and xrays may provide a different. If indicated, your vet can provide supportive care (fluids, antibiotics, deworming, etc) if indicated. In the meantime, keep him warm. Consider increasing ambient temperature in his enclosure by several degrees. Soak him daily in a warm 50/50 solution of water and an unflavored electrolyte replacement fluid. Decrease the amount fruit being fed. Make sure he continues to eat though.

A small pebble should pass without an issue. Monitor for lethargy, loss of appetite or straining to defecate. See your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles and amphibians if necessary.

You can try giving a few drops of mineral oil in the mouth by syringe. This has to be done very carefully because there is a risk of aspiration into the lungs. You can also give an enema by using a syringe to squirt some mineral oil into the vent. If you can't get mineral oil you can use paraffin oil. Do this daily for a few days to see if you get any results.