Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi all,

My juvenile box turtle has hibernated for 5 weeks now. This morning I did the regular safety check on him. He has not lost any weight as after his soak he is still 71 grams. I did notice what looked to be a bubble coming from his nose. If everyone remembers he had some kind of eye infection that had cleared up several weeks before I allowed him to hibernate. I have started to warm him up and take him out of hibernation to address this. Should I do it quickly or warm him up over a period of days? His temps have been between 55-60 as we have had warmer than usual temps it seems. Can turtles this size be treated with antibiotics? Do you think he has hibernated long enough?

Thanks and please resond as quickly as you can.
Linda

I would bring him inside and keep him in room temp. until he warms up, gradually bringing the temp. up to the 80's. He needs to be kept warm (gradually)now if he's sick. I couldn't hibernate any sick turtles.

Thanks-that's what I am doing. I think I caught it very early as I have been checking him every few days. I cannot figure out how this happened. He hibernated 10 weeks last year with no issues at all. Do you think I should start antibiotic injections?

I brought Baby T out of hibernation. He is at his normal temps now and I see no sign of respiratory infection. He is alert, basking and soaking on his own. His eyes are clear so far. I am wondering that during his short soak if he took a drink and squirted some out of his nose. I will monitor him closely and take him to the vet if anything else happens. I do feel bad that he only hibernated for 5 weeks but didn't want to risk an illness.

I am so relieved but on guard.

Thanks, Linda

Your little Three Toed is absolutely beautiful. I think you did a wonderful job with him.

N/P