Protozoa

[Alex]

I know lots of us routinely treat for worms but does anyone treat/test for protozoa?

[Ozric Jonathan]

I've had torts tested for it. Tests may not be conclusive but the most accurate one is probably done on a specimen which is induced in the lab.

[EJ]

I can't seem to get the point across to many that protozoa is way more of a health hazard to a tortoise than worms.

Most protozoa can be seen easily with a simple microscope and some simple additives (stain or glycerine). Some protozoa can go into a dormant stage where the only way to get evidence of their presence is through biopsy.

I will treat for protozoa if I see it in the feces or the animal is loosing without explanation (and there is no evidence of worms). I will not treat for no reason except when introducing a new tortoise or group to my collection.

Originally Posted by Alex

I know lots of us routinely treat for worms but does anyone treat/test for protozoa?

[Alex]

Thanks guys.

Its an interesting one. Ed would you say protozoa are less common than worms but more of a problem when present?

[EJ]

Protozoa are way more common than worms. I'm willing to bet that more tortoises die from complications of protozoa infection than of worm infestation.

Those hatchlings that have died and are labled as failure to thrive... my first guess is complications brought on by protozoa.

Protozoa can live within the animal for a very long time without stressing the host. Some protozoa were thought to be normal parts of the gut flora... until fairly recently.

Originally Posted by Alex

Thanks guys.

Its an interesting one. Ed would you say protozoa are less common than worms but more of a problem when present?

[Alex]

Thanks Ed

Would treating for worms & protozoa at the same time cause problems like really mess up the gut flora
for example treating with drontal puppy wormer & Metronidozole?

[EJ]

I don't see how it could hurt as long as it is kept to a minimum.

Are you dealing with wild caught animals.

I've treated tortoises for up to 6 months with Baytril and Flagyl without a problem. That's an extreme.

Originally Posted by Alex

Thanks Ed

Would treating for worms & protozoa at the same time cause problems like really mess up the gut flora
for example treating with drontal puppy wormer & Metronidozole?