U龟便秘之谜：原因及解决之道 - Why Turtles Get Constipated & Solution

Section 1: Causes of Turtle Constipation

Constipation in turtles is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of various underlying issues. Many diseases can manifest as constipation in turtles. Moreover, improper care and feeding can lead to this condition. Common causes of constipation due to poor management include:

Lack of dietary fiber in the food provided to the turtle.

The ingestion of foreign objects that cannot be digested properly in the turtle's gastrointestinal tract.

Inadequate activity levels in the turtle.

Poor environmental conditions for the turtle's habitat.

Longterm lack of defecation can indicate constipation in turtles. If you notice these symptoms, it's crucial to act promptly to assist the affected turtle, as constipation can worsen and lead to serious issues like intestinal obstruction.

Section 2: How to Address Turtle Constipation

1. Lubricate and Relieve Constipation: Administering edible sesame oil to the affected turtle can help. A dosage of 30 to 50 milliliters per administration is typically recommended. Alternatively, you can give the turtle laxatives like linseeds or San Huang Wan to alleviate constipation.

2. Enema Therapy: Prepare a solution of mild alkaline soap water, keeping the temperature at around 30 degrees Celsius, and gently introduce it into the turtle's cloaca. Alternatively, you can use pediatric enemas available at pharmacies. Use 4 to 5 enemas per administration, then reduce to 2 enemas after the turtle has defecated. Continue this for two more days after the first defecation.

3. Probiotics: Give the turtle Mommy Love or Lactobacillus tablets to help regulate its intestinal flora.

4. Medical Intervention: If the turtle still shows signs of constipation despite these methods, it's advisable to take it to a veterinary clinic for treatments that promote peristalsis and appetite. Additionally, a muscle injection of Ketezhuang, at a dose of 0.3 milliliters per kilogram, should be administered once daily for five consecutive days to boost the turtle's metabolism and appetite.

In severe cases where constipation progresses to gastrointestinal inflammation or obstruction, additional treatments are necessary:

Antibiotic Treatment: Administer Gentamicin at a dose of 15 milligrams per kilogram, twice daily, for five days.

Antitoxin and Liver Protection: Inject Qiangli Jiedu Min at a dose of 0.5 milliliters per kilogram, twice daily, for three days.

Fluid Replacement: To prevent metabolic acidosis, which may occur due to intestinal obstruction, oral rehydration solutions can be given. However, this is only recommended for lowpositioned intestinal obstructions. For highpositioned obstructions, caution is advised when using sodium bicarbonate.

With this comprehensive guide to the causes and solutions for turtle constipation, we hope to assist turtle enthusiasts in keeping their pets healthy and free from the discomfort of constipation.