Urgent: Risks & Treatments for Ticks on Turtles

One: Why Turtles Can Get Infected by Ticks

Ticks are common external parasites found on many animals. They typically lurk in grassy areas, waiting for a host to pass by. If a turtle ventures into a tickinfested grassland, it's quite possible for the parasites to climb onto its body and firmly attach themselves to its skin. Turtles, like other animals, can become infected with ticks when they come into contact with these pests. When ticks are not feeding, they are small and dry, resembling a mung bean in size. However, after a blood meal, they can swell to the size of a soybean or even as large as a fingernail. Tick infections in turtles often occur in the leg crevices of the animal's limbs.

Two: The Dangers of Tick Infestation in Turtles

When turtles are infested with ticks, the parasites not only draw blood, which can compromise the turtle's health, but also cause local swelling, redness, and rashes at the bite sites. Yet, this is not the worst part. Some ticks may carry viruses, and if a turtle is unlucky enough to be infected by such ticks, it could lead to the turtle contracting the virus and potentially dying. Moreover, if the tick removal process is not done correctly, there's a risk of leaving the tick's head inside the turtle, which can easily cause skin inflammation and infection. It's crucial to use the right method to remove ticks.

Three: How to Remove Ticks from Turtles

1. Dousing with Medication.

Trichlorfon is a traditional medication used to expel ticks from turtles. However, this substance is quite toxic, so it cannot be directly soaked in the turtle. Instead, a syringe should be used to carefully apply a small amount of the medication to the affected areas of the turtle, ensuring that the liquid does not accidentally get into the turtle's mouth or nose.

2. Removing the Tick with Tweezers.

After dousing with medication, the ticks on the turtle will become paralyzed but will not immediately die. It is imperative not to pull the ticks out directly, as this could cause them to burrow deeper into the turtle's skin, potentially leaving the head behind and leading to infection. After a short while, the ticks can be carefully removed with tweezers.

3. Cleaning the Skin.

Once all the ticks are removed, the turtle's bitten areas should be thoroughly cleaned and treated with ointment to prevent infection. After completing these steps, the turtle should be isolated and observed for a day. If no issues arise, it can be safely returned to its tank. However, it's important to disinfect the infected tank and apply insecticide to prevent further infestations.

Tip from Zha Zhua: When acquiring a turtle, it's best to avoid wild species as they often carry more parasites. Also, be vigilant when purchasing a turtle, checking for any parasites or abnormalities on its body to minimize future troubles during care.