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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-vitamin-a-deficiency

What causes swollen eyelids in many pet turtles fed a poor diet?

Low vitamin A can cause swollen eyelids.

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  1. Too much calcium
  2. Too much UVB light
  3. Vitamin A deficiency ✔

Why: Merck says vitamin A deficiency is common in captive turtles, and box turtles are most at risk. Signs include swollen eyelids, eye discharge and breathing problems.

Huh, didn't know that: Merck says calcium-rich greens like kale and collard greens are usually rich in vitamin A too.

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References

Answer: Vitamin A deficiency. Merck says vitamin A deficiency is common in captive turtles, and box turtles are most at risk. Signs include swollen eyelids, eye discharge and breathing problems.

  1. Merck Veterinary Manual (pet owner): Providing a Home for a Reptile www.merckvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/reptiles/providing-a-home-for-a-reptile
    Signs of vitamin A deficiency include swollen eyelids, eye discharge, chronic respiratory disease, and kidney disease.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Merck Veterinary Manual: Nutritional, Metabolic, and Endocrine Diseases of Reptiles www.merckvetmanual.com/exotic-and-laboratory-animals/reptiles/nutritional-metabolic-and-endocrine-diseases-of-reptiles
    Hypovitaminosis A is common in aquatic turtles and insectivorous lizards fed a diet deficient in preformed vitamin A.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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