My yellow belly slider turtles skin is turning red. Does anybody know why?

Question

The skin is not raising and it is only red around the face and neck. It almost lookes veiney, some spots look a little briused. He has also starting shedding his shell a lot. Any idea what is causing this?

Answer 1

Septicemia is the fancy medical word for blood poisoning. What it means is that something bad is in your turtle's body and it have created toxins in the blood. These toxic are deadly and the turtle needs to be placed on meds ASAP to prevent death. There are no home remedies for dealing with this situation. This is a serious condition and should be attended by a qualified herp vet as quickly as possible.
Turtles with septicemia are usually, but not always, found withdrawn into their shells for lengthy period of time. They can be found basking this way, setting at the bottom of the water or floating in this manner. Other signs may also include vomiting and/or a reddish tint in the skin or plastron, swelling and possibly swelling of the eyes.

While a reddish tint between scutes on the carapace is a sign of being septic, it should no be confused with the light pink or cream coloration that is common between scutes and along the center line..

Answer 2

Sounds like a reaction to dirty water. This is pretty common for turtles since they can soil their water so quickly.

The keys to healthy water are:
- Enough of it- aim for AT LEAST 10 gallons per inch of turtle. Most people use tanks that are WAY too small, which makes the problem worse.
- Warm enough- aim for 80-85. most people keep it too cool.
- Clean enough- Use at least 50% more filtration than the filter says- if you have a 40 gallon tank, use filtration for at least a 60 gallon tank. Even then, you'll want to do frequent full or partial water changes, etc.

If there is no injury, it will probably go away on its own once the problems are corrected.

The site below is good for all pond turtles, even though it focuses on Red-ears.

Answer 3

Are you sure it isn't a western or eastern painted turtle?
Also, shedding is normal, but you can get a liquid at the pet store for that. Also, does your tutle have a basking dock? Sounds like it might be to big for its shell, and maybe irritating its skin.....you should only feed them every other day if the are somewhat grown.
I have a western painted....about 8inches wide. He has bright red skin on his neck and arms....and a yellow belly.
If all else, contact a vet that specializes in aquatic reptiles....any reptile store should have a referral.
Good luck to you.....

Answer 4

Please visit www.turtleexchange.smfforfree.com ASAP and post ask the members there. Many are very knowledgeable about Also, the blood poisoning disease and other reasons it may be bruising, turning red and what not. If it is the blood poisoning, you will need to see a VET AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Please go to this site and ask them, they will be able to tell you.