Aural Abscesses

Aural Abscess

Aural abscesses (ear infections) in turtles are one of the most common illnesses. Easy to diagnose due to the obvious swelling on the sides of the head where the ears are located, these abscesses can occur in one or both ears. The swelling is caused by pus that forms within the ear canal pushing on the skin. Most likely these turtles have stopped eating and feel some discomfort.

The main causes of aural abscesses are vitamin A deficiency and poor husbandry.

Some key factors that contribute to these infections are:

• Vitamin A deficiency: Vitamin A is crucial for generation of cells in the respiratory tract and skin. If your turtle's diet lacks vitamin A, they will be more susceptible to illness that contributes to ear infections. One of the most common mistakes that new turtle owners make is not providing the proper diet. Most aquatic turtles need diets rich in vitamin A, K and calcium. Providing foods like krill, feeders or a poor quality pellet will contribute to a vitamin deficiency. Their diet should be a variety of leafy greens, a quality pellet and treats that contain the proper ca:p ratio.

•Poor husbandry: Water quality is also a crucial factor of turtle keeping. Not providing the proper filtration will cause infection, and skin irritation. Your filter should be rated to filter 3-4x the capacity of your tank and in some cases more filtration is necessary. Maintenance is also a factor that can not be ignored. Weekly water changes are recommended for maintaining adequate water quality.

•Incorrect temps: Water and basking temperatures are key components in ensuring the health of your aquatic turtle. If your turtle is too cold, their immune system becomes weakened making them susceptible to illness.

•Poor or no lighting: Proper lighting is also crucial, without unfiltered UVB your turtle cannot absorb calcium, and further diminish their immune system as well as causing a metabolic imbalance. UVA light is important for activity, mood, appetite and overall behavior. Heat helps your turtle capture D3, increase their metabolism, drive their natural rhythm and behavior, manage fungal and bacterial infections, manage viral infections, heal wounds, digest foods and aid shedding. Without the proper lighting, your turtle may not be able to digest food, this will also diminish their immune system.

• Environmental stress: Stress can also contribute to a weakened immune system. Some sources of stress can include; a small tank, not enough basking space, overcrowding , not enough time with access to water, or too much handling.

Treatment: A visit to a certified herp vet, the abscess will need to be lanced and antibiotics will need to be administered.