Shell rot is usually caused by an overgrowth of bacteria found in dirty environments, such as dirty water or moldy bedding. As such, it is VERY important to know how to keep the water in your aquatic turtle tank clean and how to properly clean your tortoise’s environment.
How do you know if a turtle shell is rotting?
Pet turtles tend to have more subtle signs but these can include a red tinge to areas of the shell, slime over the shell, a bad smell, flaking of the scutes and an easily damaged shell.
How do you clean a turtle shell rot?
Use your mild soap and a warm toothbrush to softly scrub any areas with shell rot. Your goal is to remove any dirt, algae, etc. that could be covering some of the bacteria, as dirt and algae aren’t actually going to ever harm your turtle. Once scrubbed, rinse off all of the soap with water.
How do you fix a red eared slider shell rot?
If the shell rot has a foul odor, apply an antibacterial or antibiotic cream (silver sulfadiazine ointment or 2% mupirocin ointment) to the affected area as well. Do this twice a day for a week. Make sure to keep the turtle away from water after swabbing for 30-40 minutes to let the medicine work.
Is shell rot contagious?
Shell rot can be highly contagious, and one infected animal can spread it rapidly to all others it comes into contact with. It is not a condition that should be ignored or underestimated. Seek professional advice at an early stage if you believe you have an affected tortoise or turtle.
How do you know if shell rot is healing?
The shell is healed when it is free of discharge and odor, and is “smooth” (irregular scars may remain for life). I don’t recommend dry docking which can result in decreased food and water intake.
How long can red eared sliders go without water?
The Red Eared Slider is semi-aquatic, just like other turtles. But unlike the rest, it tends to leave the water and bask on land for longer hours. The Red Eared Slider can live without water for up to a week or more.
Can you put Neosporin on a turtle?
You can also wrap the turtle with sterile gauze to help stabilize any broken shell pieces that may be present. Neosporin/triple antibiotic ointment can be placed on minor open wounds to help kill bacteria, and to help prevent any gauze from sticking to the wounds.
Why is my turtle shell turning black?
Shell rot is characterized by pitting, soft spots, foul odor or discharge or loss of scutes. It can be a serious condition and requires veterinary attention. Your turtle may have rot or the discoloration may be due to excess mold or algae. Clean the tank, do a water change and change the filter media.
How do you treat fungus on a turtle shell?
Brush your turtle with a soft toothbrush moistened with water and some gentle soap, like Dove. Remove as much fungus as possible and rinse and dry him thoroughly. Wipe his shell with a solution that is 5 percent iodine to treat a fungal infection. Let it dry completely and repeat the process for two consecutive weeks.
Why is my turtle shell turning brown?
As they develop into adults and age, their shells often become dark green, brown, and black. Thus, it is perfectly normal and healthy for your turtle’s color to change over time. You should expect this.
Why is my red eared slider shell turning white?
Most of the time your turtle’s shell is turning white due to hard water. You can fix this by using distilled/treated water and by cleaning the turtle’s shell. It may be due to a fungal infection as well. This can be treated through OTC topical medication.
What does a healthy red eared slider turtle shell look like?
The shell of a RES should be hard and relatively smooth. The carapace (top) should be dark green and the plastron (bottom) should be bright yellow. It should not be pitted, soft (unless a juvenile), cracked or bleeding. It is normal to have a small amount of algae on the shell.
