Why do turtles, tortoises, or frogs puff their throats? Is it normal?

Poor Scarlett. This usually indicates some type of respiratory infection. I would have your vet take a look at her before she actually starts to act sick. Once they stop eating and become lethargic, it can be difficult to make them well. Your vet will be able to start her on some antibiotics if needed. Your vet will also be able to give you some suggestions on things you can change to her environment to help her feel better quicker. I hope this helps!

It sounds like your tortoise has an upper respiratory tract infection. I would recommend taking her to a veterinarian that is comfortable treating reptiles. She may need x-rays to determine what is going on. Your vet will probably recommend antibiotics and possibly a breathing treatment to help clear up the nasal passages. Good luck.

Turtles will bask in a variety of positions to maximize heat and UVB absorption. If she is behaving normally otherwise, there is likely no cause for concern. Monitor for lethargy, difficulty breathing, "gaping" (opening and closing mouth), blowing bubbles or discharge from the nose or mouth, decreased appetite or lopsided swimming. See your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian if any of these symptoms develop.

Thanks for reaching out. Frogs, as amphibians, don't have a swim bladder like fish do. They can accumulate air in their abdominal cavity due to infections and can perform aerophagia (swallowing/gulping) of air that can rest in the stomach, thereby changing buoyancy. Some frogs can over-inflate their lungs, due to disease and have difficulty expelling air. Check water quality first for pH, ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Correct any concerns. The only way to determine air in the stomach, lungs or abdominal cavity is probably through a radiograph. Antibiotics could help several of these conditions but a veterinarian visit is needed. Good luck.

She may be "gaping". This behavior is typically in response to stress or a threat. Monitor for lethargy, wheezing or a clicking/popping sound whilenbreatuing. These symptoms, along with the gaping, may indicate a developing respiratory infection. You would need to have her physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles for confirmation and treatment.

Hello, that sounds like normal breathing to me. What I would suggest you do, is get a video of this behavior and then just take it by a vet office (one that is used to treating reptiles) and show it to them. I'm sure they would be happy to give you an opinion. That would give you a better idea than me trying to ascertain what is normal just based on your description. Hope this helps. Best wishes!

Thanks for reaching out about Flippy and including a photo. The eyes and neck are swollen, and by your description, it appears he has a respiratory infection. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan that should include a vitamin A and calcium injections and systemic antibiotics. The diet and husbandry practices need to be reviewed and corrected. Good luck.