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Treatment

To remove all of the pus and debris that has built up underneath the turtle’s eardrum, the veterinarian will anesthetize the animal, cut a hole in the membrane, thoroughly clean and flush out the inner parts of the ear with an antiseptic solution, and pack the area with an antibiotic ointment. In many cases, oral are prescribed in addition to the injectable antibiotics. Meanwhile, the incision will be left to heal on its own.

Prevention

To prevent an aural abscess from returning, the veterinarian will often recommend vitamin A supplements or modifications to the turtle’s diet. Owners will also have to correct any inappropriate environmental conditions within the reptile’s terrarium to prevent ear infections from returning or from developing in the first place.