Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My 3 year old American Bulfrog Oswald is all of a suddden very injured. He could best be described as being crooked. He walks in circles (but can propell himself straight in the water). His face is turned, and he looks like he's bent. All of his limbs have strength and he is active and still eating. his eyes are clear and skins look good. My worry is he has trouble getting around his enclosure, he goes in circles and sometimes flips himself over upside down and twists instead of going forward, or whatever he was going to do. How do I know if he is in pain? Is there anything I can do? I palpated his bones, no obvious breaks and no nourological deficits. is he guarding a pain? I am very concerned about his quality of life. Any ideas?

I am not that versed with amphibians; however, I will give some suggestions. Maybe, someone else can offer some better advice or info.

The condition that you described does sound neurological in nature, but it is a symptom. When turtles/tortoises have similar symtpoms, it if often from inner-ear abcesses. So, if you can find a vet that treats amphibian/tropical fish, you may have some luck. Also, spinal trauma can cause similar symptoms, but you stated that there were no obvious physiological changes.

You can try: www.arav.org for a vet in your area.

or

e-mail any of the following frog disease specialists for some advice---click on the link

Goodluck
Link

Good advice from the lizardman. A vet is your best bet, and uncoordination of this stature is reason to believe there is a poor quality of life. Many causes of such will have a good prognoses, while others won't. Your vet will discuss this with you.

Ian