Shell rot
If you have a RES turtle, you might want to think about treating the shell rot. It can be very serious and will kill your turtle if it isn’t treated properly.
Turtles can get shell rot when they have dirty water, lack of humidity, or if their habitat is not conducive to healthy growth. You can prevent this by changing the water often and ensuring that your turtle has an area to bask in and relax.
Some of the symptoms of shell rot include white spots on the shell and bits of shell falling off. Fungal infections are also a cause of shell rot. Symptoms of a fungal infection will include white spots, a rotten meat smell, and a cream color.
In the worst cases, the entire shell plate can fall off. This is usually a sign of a more severe infection. A fungal infection can be treated by soaking the shell in an antiseptic solution for a few minutes.
Depending on the severity of the condition, your vet may suggest that you use an antibiotic to treat your turtle. The infection can also reach the soft tissues and bones in the worst cases.
Fortunately, shell rot is not contagious to humans. However, it can be spread from turtle to turtle. Shell rot is a problem for a variety of animals, including terrapins and box turtles.
Although it is not an infectious disease, shell rot can be very painful to your pet. Affected areas on the shell will become uneven and dry. They will also develop pits and holes.
The best way to combat the problem is to clean the turtle thoroughly. You can do this with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap. Be sure to scrub the whole shell. Rinse it with warm water afterwards.
If you don’t want to risk causing further damage, you can treat the shell rot by taking your turtle to the vet. Your veterinarian will be able to remove any rotten parts and prescribe an antibiotic to fight the infection.
Treating your turtle for shell rot is not difficult. You can apply normal betadine or silver sulfadiazine ointment to the affected area. Just make sure to dry it off well before putting it back in the tank.
Metabolic bone disease
Metabolic bone disease is a condition that occurs when a turtle does not get enough calcium and phosphorus in its diet. Symptoms include softening of the bones, and general weakness.
This can be a symptom of other problems, such as dystocia or a viral infection. If you notice this in your turtle, you need to see a vet right away. They can diagnose and treat the underlying problem.
A healthy Reeves turtle should have a hard, smooth shell. It should not have any cuts, sores or nasal discharge. In addition, its eyes should be shiny and clear. You should check its feces for odor, color and firmness.
You should also take your turtle to the vet when it starts showing signs of diarrhea. Diarrhea can be caused by viruses, internal parasites or protozoans. Your vet may also prescribe pain medication or a softening agent.
Another common problem with shell rot is the deformed shape of the shell. It can cause your turtle to be unable to walk. Depending on the severity of the disease, your turtle might die.
To help prevent this, feed your turtle a calcium-rich diet. Some foods to consider are crickets and calcium-dusted mealworms. Other options include salad oil and vitamin E.
Reeves turtles are easy to care for, but they do require proper water conditions. Changing the water in their tank on a regular basis will help to keep them healthy. Partial water changes should be done about once a week.
Lastly, you should be careful when selecting bedding materials. Cedar, pine and other materials that have a strong odor can irritate the eyes. Keeping these materials in a quarantine area is a good idea.
Metabolic bone disease can be prevented by ensuring that your turtle gets enough calcium and phosphorus in its diet. The best way to do this is to ensure that your turtle receives adequate UVB light and heat gradients. Also, monitor the quality of the water and if it is not up to par, you should change it.
Once you know the symptoms of metabolic bone disease, you can make the necessary adjustments to protect your turtle. Keep in mind that a healthy turtle will not show any signs of the disease.
