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Turtle Treatment case study & Veterinary Clinic in Nassau County, NY

  • Shachar Malka
  • 3 days ago
  • 2 min read

Red-Eared Slider Reproductive Surgery (OVE)


Species: Red-Eared Slider (Age 14) Location: Nassau County, NY


Red-Eared Slider “Spay” ( Ovariosalpingectomy - OVE) in Long Island Patient at Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic


Reptiles are stoic animals, often hiding illness until it is critical Subtle changes in behavior, appetite, or activity can be the first, and sometimes only, clues that something is wrong. The Red-Eared Slider, a 14-year-old patient from Nassau County, came to us after the owners noticed the patient had stopped eating and was acting restless - classic signs of distress.

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The Diagnosis: Follicular Stasis


Upon arrival at our clinic in Great Neck, NY, our team performed a full diagnostic workup:

  • Radiographs (X-rays): Revealed multiple abnormally shaped poorly shelled eggs inside the patient's body.

  • Bloodwork: Confirmed hypercalcemia (high calcium), indicating active reproductive disease.

  • Diagnosis: Follicular Stasis (the follicles were stuck).

The Treatment: Endoscopic Surgery


We initially attempted to help the Red-Eared Slider pass the eggs with medical therapy (calcium and oxytocin), but when this was unsuccessful, surgery became necessary to prevent rupture and death.

  • The Procedure: We performed an Endoscopic Ovariosalpingectomy (OVE). This is a specialized "spay" for turtles.

  • Advanced Care: Using the endoscope, we were also able to visualize the patient's liver, which looked abnormal, and obtained a biopsy for further analysis- something impossible with standard surgery.

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Recovery


The surgery was successful, and all retained eggs and follicles were removed. The Red-Eared Slider recovered appropriately and returned to the tank in Long Island, eating and swimming normally.


FAQs

  • How do I know if my turtle is egg-bound? Signs include digging, restlessness, lack of appetite, and sometimes trying to escape the tank.

  • Can you spay a turtle? Yes. We recommend it for females with reproductive issues. We use endoscopic equipment to make the procedure less invasive than traditional shell-cutting methods.

Contact Long Island Bird & Exotics Veterinary Clinic:

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