Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I would appreciate any ideas as to what this could be: my smallest from a clutch born last September has developed a crusty issue on both eyelids. Can open the eyes and acts lively when picked up but is generally lethargic, doesn't go after food.

Am feeding a vitamin & calc enriched puree of peach baby food and papaya nectar with syringe(worked before on a different juvie w/other ailment.).

I've read they can develop respiratory issues if temp too cold and crust around the eyes may be one symptom. He does seem to take deep breaths when he breathes.

Basking temp: 90 F; gradient to 70 in cool corner.

All others from same clutch doing fine.

Thanks for your comments.

John

well try raising basking temp to 95-110 and a cool area of around 80

I agree that you need to raise the basking SURFACE temps to 105-110, but the hot side should not be that hot. What are you using to measure your temps with? Also are you using a UVB bulb, and if so, what kind is it? Fluorescent, coil or Mercury Vapor bulb?

Yes, I use a ReptiSun 10 fl tube plus a 100 watt incandescent spot for basking. I use a ZooMed HygroTemp w/probe to measure surface temps. Actual basking area gets up to around 108 F.

I would separate out that baby just in case its contagious, and take it to the vet. Your temps sound good.

After I posted my message I inserted my temp/hydrostat probe at the basking spot and it registered around 108 F. There are gradient cool areas in the 80s as well. Thanks for your comment!

Seen it and heard it a zillion times over the years.....
As soon as you say eyes stuck shut or crusty eyes get to a vet, one of the symptoms of respiratory/bacterial infection and I hate to say but will go DOWN hill if he's not treated. Sorry he's sick Don't wait too long. Let us know how he does.
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PHEve / Eve

Thanks, Eve! I figured someone on this Forum had run into this before and could help.

I just hope the little baby will be okay. If you act quick he may be alright. I would say no matter the Vet does ( most likely give you Batril or some sort of antibiotic) as far as what you can do is make sure your heat is optimal right now, and when I have a sick one I leave heat on all night too. Get a night light and have it warm in there for the baby.

If you use a small sick tank just for him it should be easier to keep toasty while sick. You may notice him gaping/opening mouth either for quick breaths now and then or if you do not get him treated he will evenually hold head up towards ceiling with mouth open as they can no longer breath well

But sometimes keeping them nice and warm around clock helps so much for them to fight whatever respiratory / bacterial thing they may have.

It really stinks when they are sick just like when we are. Just do your best and hope he will have the strength he needs to recover. He's young and feisty so maybe thats to his benifit Let us know
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PHEve / Eve

As always your comments are helpful and I appreciate your taking the time to respond. I'll keep you posted.

John