Hello.
I recently redid my ornate eastern box turtle’s enclosure and messed up big I’m afraid. I put in a blend of coco fiber and natural soil but unfortunately planted golden pothos as well. Upon learning it’s potential to irritate eyes I removed it after only one day of being in the enclosure but unfortunately my turtle was already displaying swollen eyes. The swelling is minor, he can still open them completely. However, the lids are very puffy and he seems to keep them closed unless I flush with water which I have done several times in an effort to clear the plant sap. I am so overcome with guilt I feel sick. I am in close contact with an exotic vet if care is needed but should swelling reduce in coming days? Is this an emergency? Does he need to be removed from the substrate (gets him dirty)? Please, please help he’s about 15 years old and I feel so terrible for letting this discomfort happen to him. Any help appreciated.
I recently redid my ornate eastern box turtle’s enclosure and messed up big I’m afraid. I put in a blend of coco fiber and natural soil but unfortunately planted golden pothos as well. Upon learning it’s potential to irritate eyes I removed it after only one day of being in the enclosure but unfortunately my turtle was already displaying swollen eyes. The swelling is minor, he can still open them completely. However, the lids are very puffy and he seems to keep them closed unless I flush with water which I have done several times in an effort to clear the plant sap. I am so overcome with guilt I feel sick. I am in close contact with an exotic vet if care is needed but should swelling reduce in coming days? Is this an emergency? Does he need to be removed from the substrate (gets him dirty)? Please, please help he’s about 15 years old and I feel so terrible for letting this discomfort happen to him. Any help appreciated.