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Quick answer
Swollen individuals could be carrying eggs, have an infection
that's caused them to take on water or have an intestinal blockage.
Further
information
In spring or early summer a bloated amphibian could be a female
- they become noticeably swollen with eggs at this time. This is
natural and they normally return to a smaller size once they
have spawned. Female
newts can become egg-bound, where eggs get stuck in the reproductive
system. If you suspect this has happened, try contacting a vet
or wildlife hospital for advice.
Sometimes Froglife receives reports of amphibians that have
become noticeably bloated all over the body, rather that only the belly
(which is indicative of carrying eggs). This unusual bloating is
thought to be related to a hormonal imbalance which pulls water
into the animal's body causing it to swell. Symptoms often appear
to subside over time but, again, a vet may be able to help.
A swollen amphibian may also be indicative of a blockage in the
gut. Unless a vet is able to help with this (which may not be
possible) the outcome, unfortunately, is not good for these animals.
If you have found a bloated amphibian that's dead this is likely
to have occurred after death, especially if it died in the pond,
rather than being a symptom of something that killed it.
Find my nearest vet.
Find a wildlife hospital.
Amphibian disease.
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