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my tortoise wont open its eyes i was told its lack of vit a i have been bathing him in pureed carrot . his eyes are moving under neath

my tortoise wont open its eyes i was told its lack of vit a i have been bathing him in pureed carrot . his eyes are moving under neath

Updated On May 28th, 2017

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Male | unneutered

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

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Hello there. Yes it does sound like a Vitamin A deficiency. Bathing him in carrot puree is not likely to help. You need to get him some topical eye drops such as these: http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=11311&cmpid=07cseYY&ref=6196&subref=AA&cmpid=PLA_G_6196&gclid=CK6lo834ktQCFVKPfgodyvoJKA I am unsure what product is comparable in the UK. If you go to a reptile pet store I am sure they would have something. You honestly need to address the husbandry issues - diet, humidity, lighting, etc. This article may help. http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=17+1797&aid=2589 Reptiles have a slow metabolism so they get sick slowly and hence it will take a long time for them to get well. Don't expect an overnight fix. My best recommendation would be to have him evaluated by a reptile veterinarian so you can get the best treatment plan as he may have more going on than just the Vitamin A issue. I hope this helps. Dr. Amber

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