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The following is a list of the main signs that a turtle is sick. It is not all-inclusive and should not be used as a checklist to determine if a turtle is healthy. If your turtle demonstrates any of the symptoms listed below, check with a qualified reptile veterinarian as soon as possible. Home treatment is not advised and time may be a critical factor in controlling disease before it has time to escalate. These signs of illness are not listed by severity or frequency of occurrence.

  • change in behavior or feeding habits noticeable for over 2 weeks (females may go off feed during egg-laying season)
  • whitish or grayish areas on water turtles, either on shell or skin
  • soft shell
  • shell that is not smooth with a slight sheen but is dry, flaky, or appears "sanded"
  • dry, flaky or translucent skin
  • discolored spots on shell or skin (look for non-symmetrical spots either darker or lighter than the surrounding area that may "give" when you push on them)
  • red spots or tinge in shell or skin
  • nasal discharge (may not be evident unless you tap on the nose to cause the turtle to withdraw its head)
  • swellings or lumps on skin, especially swelling over the ear
  • foaming or discharge from mouth edges
  • wet, runny, or sticky eyes
  • listing to one side in water (can be checked with box turtles as well as water turtles)
  • inability to submerge in water turtles
  • frequent awakening during hibernation
  • prolonged exposure in open, sunny areas without moving or sitting out in the open at night in box turtles
  • basking after dark in water turtles
  • prolonged soaking in water or box turtles
  • "cottage cheese" material in mouth
  • pale mouth (except in ornate box turtles)
  • any foul odor
  • loose stools
  • failure to pass feces
  • prolapse (any tissue emerging from cloacal vent)
  • excessive scratching or many small bumps on skin (mites)
  • obesity- tissues puffing out around legs (obesity can lead to illness and a shortened life span)
  • swollen back legs or straining and kicking back and forth for over 2 weeks without laying eggs in females
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12y ago

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