Swollen/bloated tortoise

marginata_paul

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Sep 30, 2016
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Hi all. I have a 5 year old marginated tortoise.
A few days ago I.noticed he is quite bloated front and.rear. I do not live near any exotic vets unfortunately.
What could be causing this

IMG_20190913_073515.jpg
 

method89

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can you provide more pictures? close ups of the issue?
 

marginata_paul

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Sep 30, 2016
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it is not showing up that great on pictures, but swelling is all over. tortoise is still eating, however unable to withdraw into shell.
 

marginata_paul

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Sep 30, 2016
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Update

The tortoise developed difficulty breathing/ mouth open and gasping for air.
he was prescribed a 10 day course of Baytril which reduced the swelling & breathing was less labored.

a few days after the difficulty breathing has returned along with bleeding from the mouth.The tortoise is gasping for air is very lethargic and not eating.
yesterday there was a strong ammonia smell from his tail.

the vet is liaising with a reptile specialist who has requested a swab sample to be taken.
 

marginata_paul

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Sep 30, 2016
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*Update*

a quick update in case people are searching for answers like i was

the tortoise was put of diuretics to reduce the swelling and was also connected to a tube for hydration.
the tortoise continued to deteriorate and started turning blue.
he died on the 28th October.
suspected heart failure / infection
 

Yvonne G

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I'm so sorry to hear this. The swollen look was telling us that he was retaining fluid, sometimes caused by kidney problems. Please accept my most sincere condolences. It's never easy to lose them!
 

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