All Turtles Message Board

AnneTheresa · Guest Joined: 12 Dec 2007 Posts: 2

Rosey, a female Red-eared slider, has been living with us for 8 years with no problems until recently.

Most troubling of her symptoms is the top of her shell. It looks like it's drying out and there are thick, large sections of the shell peeling/lifting away from the surface.

She's become lethargic and has been off her food for 2-weeks. We've tried all her favourite foods - like shrimp which she always eats even when nothing else appeals to her - but she's not interested, even in her favourites.

I'm very concerned and I don't know what to do. Any insight or suggestions you could provide would be much appreciated.

Thank-you for responding,
Anne Theresa

Linzlou83 · Posted: Mon Dec 31, 2007 10:18 pm Post subject:

Shell shedding is completely normal, as is periods of not eating much. However, if you've had her for 8 years and haven't seen this type of shedding before, it maybe something more serious...Has her eating improved at all? Does she have a balanced diet? How's the water temp and quality?

A picture or a trip to the vet might be a better way to diagnose what's wrong.
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AnneTheresa · Guest Joined: 12 Dec 2007 Posts: 2

Thanks for responding. I appreciate you comments.

Her water and diet are both good, we've been meticulous about ensuring her comfort/health.

The only think I can think of that's different is the amount of algae on her shell. I don't use the anti- algae chemicals (I was told they weren't necessary) but I used to wash her shell with a small brush (under running water) once per month

When my partner took over her care - about a year ago - he didn't feel the brushing was necessary and so she now has quite a bit of algae on her shell.

My intuition tells me to give her a cleaning, but I'm afraid to brush her, given the present state of her shell. I need to learn a bit more about algae, pro & con.

She's still not eating but - even as I type this - she's active, pushing her rock around and seemingly fine.

Take good care,
a.t.

STRAYKINGFISHER · Posted: Wed Jan 02, 2008 5:22 pm Post subject:

Check this link out, it talks about shell shedding in turtles, it should help you decide if your turtle is shedding normal or you need to take more drastic measures:

http://www.turtlecare.net/shed.htm
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