Foreign Body Ingestion

The intestinal impactions occasionally seen in desert tortoises are rarely a problem in box turtles. However eating snail shells occasionally causes intestinal tract damage in box turtles. Certain individuals seem to be plagued by this Problem and should not be fed whole snails. Most box turtles can safely eat snails and snail shells.

 Blood Parasites

Various blood parasites have been found in box turtles. Blood parasites can overwhelm an already weakened and/or sick turtle and should be treated with the appropriate medication. A blood test is necessary to detect these parasites.

 Intestinal Parasites

A variety of roundworm and strangle-type worms can parasitize captive box turtles. Reinfection results when pet turtles are permitted to feed in an environment m which feces are allowed to accumulate and contaminate food. Numerous deaths of box turtles occur every year from intestinal rupture and peritonitis resulting from heavy intestinal parasitism.

Few box turtles are parasite-free; therefore, yearly fecal exams and/or routine de-wormings are recommended. Strict attention to hygiene, frequent soil changes and periodic rotation in habitats to reduce exposure to these parasites ate also recommended.

Intestinal Protozoa

These one-celled parasites can cause disease and are occasionally found in captive box turtles. Diagnosis of Giardia and Trichomonas infections requires direct microscopic examination of the feces by an experienced laboratory technician or veterinarian. The feces must first be placed in a preservative solution and then a special staining procedure is used to prepare them for examination.

 Reproductive Problems

Egg-binding is a fairly common problem among female box turtles. This condition results when a pregnant female cannot pass an egg by herself She typically strains excessively against the obstruction. The egg may be oversized or there may be metabolic or other reasons for her inability to Pass the egg without assistance. Radiographs (x-rays) are usually made to confirm that the female is, in fact, fertile with eggs. Then, hormone injections and sometimes aspiration of the egg's contents are necessary to expel the stubborn egg.

Several other conditions are seen in reproductively active female box turtles. Meteorites (infection of the uterus) and egg-yolk peritonitis (ruptured egg-yolk or yolks within the body cavity) are the most common.

 Erections in Males

During the mating season, male box turtles periodically protrude and rhythmically fan their penis. This copulatory organ is flower-shaped and purple, and may appear unusual or abnormal to those unfamiliar with box turtles. It is most often mistaken for a prolapsed organ and may be treated as such by those unfamiliar with box turtle anatomy and mating habits.

 Prolapses

Prolapses of the uterus, intestine, urinary bladder or penis (paraphimosis) may occur. The last condition occurs if the engorged penis cannot be returned inside the body cavity due to small vent size or Previous trauma to the enlarged organ. An anesthetic and skillful manipulation by an experienced reptile veterinarian are usually necessary to replace a prolapsed organ. Clumsy attempts by novices may permanently damage the involved organs.

 Eye Disorders

Various disorders involving the eyes of box turtles are noted from time to time. These include cataracts, corneal ulcers, puncture wounds and other traumatic injuries, infections, maggot infestation, conjunctivitis and dry eye Oceratitis sicca).

 Further Information About Box Turtles

A wealth of information may be obtained by joining one or more of the turtle and tortoise clubs. Club newsletters provide information on box turtle care and other related matters.

Questions should be directed to our office, 502-245-7863