Typical Signs of Illness

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A sick box turtle may not eat and may lose weight.  Swollen

and/or runny eyes, nasal discharge, swollen ears, lumps or

swellings, wounds to the shell, increased water consumption,

diarrhea, extreme lethargy, weakness and coma are other signs

of illness.  Subtle changes in behavior and the turtle's routine

often signal the onset of illness.  It is at this stage in the

course of an illness that a box turtle should be presented to a

veterinarian.  A thorough physical exam and a laboratory work-up

(blood and/or bacteriology tests) can be performed to diagnose

and properly treat the problem.