Swollen, Closed Eyes in Red-Eared Sliders and Their Relatives

Swollen, Closed Eyes in Red-Eared Sliders and Their Relatives
By Assist. Prof. Dr. Somphoth Weerakul, DVM

The Red-Eared Slider, known for its distinct red patches and striking green body, is commonly referred to in Thailand as the "Japanese Turtle." In reality, they originate from the Americas. I am highlighting this species because they are very popular pets due to their affordability, yet they frequently suffer from a specific condition.

Symptoms and Causes
Young Red-Eared Sliders often present with swollen, closed eyes, which is a primary clinical sign of Vitamin A deficiency (Hypovitaminosis A). Other accompanying symptoms include:

Bulging eyes.
Excessive nasal discharge and tearing.
Anorexia (refusal to eat) and lethargy.
Body swelling (appearing "too fat" for the shell).
In many cases, this stems from improper husbandry. Pet owners should check their turtle food packaging to see if it is fortified with Vitamin A. It is also important to ensure the food is not expired or degraded by improper storage, such as exposure to direct light. While less common, this deficiency can also occur in older turtles and various species of tortoises due to an unbalanced diet.

Pathology
A lack of Vitamin A leads to the enlargement and abnormal multiplication of epithelial cells (squamous metaplasia) in the eyes, respiratory tract, digestive tract, reproductive system, and urinary tract. While the eyes show the most obvious signs, the entire body can be affected.

In severe cases involving respiratory infection, the turtle will exhibit labored breathing—stretching its neck and legs or rocking its body forcefully to breathe. Nasal discharge may progress from clear to thick and opaque.


Treatment Protocol
Treatment involves Vitamin A supplementation, preferably using fat-soluble Vitamin A.

Dosage: $500\text{--}5000\text{ IU/kg}$ body weight, administered via Intramuscular (IM), Subcutaneous (SC), or Oral (PO) routes.
Frequency: Every 1–2 weeks. Usually, significant improvement is seen after just two doses.
If using a combined Vitamin A, D3, and E supplement (commonly found in clinics):

Option 1 (Injectable): $0.15\text{ ml/kg}$ body weight, repeated once after 21 days.
Option 2 (Oral): Start with $0.3\text{ ml/kg}$ for the first dose, then reduce to $0.06\text{ ml/kg}$ every 7 days for 3–4 consecutive weeks.
Secondary Infections
Since secondary bacterial infections are common, antibiotics should be considered:

Enrofloxacin: $5\text{--}10\text{ mg/kg}$ IM every 24 hours.
Cephazolin: $20\text{ mg/kg}$ SC or IM every 24 hours.
Oral Alternative (Cephalexin): $20\text{--}40\text{ mg/kg}$ PO every 12 hours if the owner is capable of oral administration.
In cases of pneumonia or dehydration, soak the turtle in warm water to encourage hydration and boost metabolism. Intracoelomic fluids may be administered if necessary.


Preventative Measures for Owners
Owners can prevent this condition by supplementing the diet with Vitamin A-rich foods:

Vegetables: Broccoli or turnips.
Yellow/Red Fruits & Veggies: Ripe papaya, carrots, or cantaloupe.
Fresh Proteins: Small fish or shrimp.
Storage: Use fortified commercial pellets and store them away from light.
Cod Liver Oil: You can use the same cod liver oil many of us took as children. Administer 2 drops, twice a week.
Caution
Avoid over-supplementation. Vitamin A toxicity (Hypervitaminosis A) can cause the skin to become thick, peel excessively, and lead to other serious systemic complications.