Trouble Swallowing

RoyaleScales

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So a buddy of mine adopted a Sulcata not long ago, probably 2 weeks ago. I am going to be taking the Sulcata off of her hands this 20th. Now I got a message saying that the animal seems to be having some visual symptoms of being sick. Clearly seeking out a Herpetologist is key, I wanted to ask and see if anyone knows what it could be and if it's treatable. He is about 45lbs and suffered from minor pyramiding in his younger years.

Symptoms:
Gasping
Grunting
Runny nose
Going towards cold spots
Eyelids covering half his eye
 

Maro2Bear

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RoyaleScales

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New Jersey
Greetings..

I know you are not dealing with a hatchling....but do read up on the care, heating, lighting, substrate, etc that are needed, here in this Care Sheet:
I’m guessing this tort has been kept too cold at night, possibly daytime as well.

Hope that helps.... check the temps!

Happy Torting
I've owned large babies and hatchlings, I know correct temps and humidity and everything under the sun (I think).
 

Minority2

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Tortoise Hell
So a buddy of mine adopted a Sulcata not long ago, probably 2 weeks ago. I am going to be taking the Sulcata off of her hands this 20th. Now I got a message saying that the animal seems to be having some visual symptoms of being sick. Clearly seeking out a Herpetologist is key, I wanted to ask and see if anyone knows what it could be and if it's treatable. He is about 45lbs and suffered from minor pyramiding in his younger years.

Symptoms:
Gasping
Grunting
Runny nose
Going towards cold spots
Eyelids covering half his eye

1. Runny nose can be a sign of respiratory infection.
2. Going towards cold spots may mean the tortoise is lack humidity and is settling in colder areas where humidity levels are higher.
3. Eyelids covering eyes can either be UV damage from improper indoor setups or if the tortoise is housed in conditions that are too dry.
4. Gasping for air can be another sign of respiratory infection or something that may be blocking their noses from breathing correctly.

Does this tortoise have a heated night box?

Whomever is taking care of the tortoise should raise the heated night box temperature levels and give him more frequent soaks.
 

RoyaleScales

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Joined
Oct 3, 2018
Messages
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Location (City and/or State)
New Jersey
1. Runny nose can be a sign of respiratory infection.
2. Going towards cold spots may mean the tortoise is lack humidity and is settling in colder areas where humidity levels are higher.
3. Eyelids covering eyes can either be UV damage from improper indoor setups or if the tortoise is housed in conditions that are too dry.
4. Gasping for air can be another sign of respiratory infection or something that may be blocking their noses from breathing correctly.

Does this tortoise have a heated night box?

Whomever is taking care of the tortoise should raise the heated night box temperature levels and give him more frequent soaks.
No, it roams there house..... Again, it isn't mine yet..
 

Minority2

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Location (City and/or State)
Tortoise Hell
No, it roams there house..... Again, it isn't mine yet..

1. Does that mean the adult Sulcata stays primarily inside their home and on the floor?
2. If so, what type of flooring do they have?
3. Does the tortoise have his own room?
4. Are the owners using any type of substrate to mitigate the amount of pressure placed on the tortoise's legs?
5. What type of heating are they using for the tortoise? Does the tortoise have it's own dedicated heating appliance or are they using a home heating system of some type?
6. How many times is the adult Sulcata soaked per week?

You can always call your buddy, the owner of the tortoise, for the answers to these questions. A list of symptoms is not enough to go by.
 
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