How can I tell if my turtle is sick??

Question

my turtle was really active and always swimming real fast. these last two days she has been real slow and always sleeping which is not like her at all. she still eats just fine and a little playful. She just seems slow and tired now.... help!

Answer 1

Have you checked the tempurature in her cage? Reptiles are cold blooded and need to be warm to be active. Try using a heat lamp or checking her heat rock if you have one (if you don't, get one).

Answer 2

My guesses would be:

1. Cool temps. Water temp should run about 75-80, or even a bit higher this time of year to prevent hibernation.

2. Poor diet. Cheap flake food is not very nutritious, but commonly used.

3. Poor lighting. Turtles try to hibernate when light cycles get shorter. Good lighting helps combat this. Good lighting with UV also contributes a lot towards health.

4. Dirty water. If you can smell 'turtle' the water needs replacing and cleaning.


Sadly, there is a TON of misinformation about raising turtles, but y9u can get helpful info at sites like http://www.austinsturtlepage.com

Answer 3

two things-check the water temp-should e between 75-80 degrees farenheit for std. pond turtles (cooters, sliders, etc) Second, check lighting schedule and quality, make sure your turtle is getting good quality full spectrum lighting around 12 hours a day.

Answer 4

Depending on where you live your turtle might be getting ready for hiberination, it's normal. A few days later you might notice that your turtle's beginning to eat less, that's your cue to get it ready for hibernation.

Answer 5

being caged and restricted will make anyone or anything become withdrawn, depressed and low keyed; think about it; turn her loose and let her go; to be free is being happy.

Answer 6

Call the pet shop where you bought her and ask them they are usually pretty helpful!

Answer 7

it stops moving and the shell changes color