hey i have a red eared slider(Mo) and his shell looks all wierd on 2 um whats the word (tiles) and its all wierd lookin its like tanish im guessing he is shedding or what ever you call it. am i right?
2007-05-22 16:22:41 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Reptiles
hey yall when hes in the water it looks like its not there anymore but next time i take him out for a "walk" i will check
2007-05-22 18:10:37 · update #1
Turtles do shed their scutes, especially around this time of the year. You can take it to a vet to be sure.
2007-05-23 06:07:41 · answer #1 · answered by Devi 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Turtles do shed the upper parts of their scutes. This is perfectly normal if only a thin top layer is peeling off, which is what it sounds like from your description.
The only time I'd be concerned is if large thick sections were falling off (you should be able to see through the sections a little if they're normal sheds), or if you notice bleeding.
Go down this page to the section on shedding: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/medshell.htm
They also shed their skin, which looks white and slimy in the water, like it's got a fungus. Real fungus on them would look more "fuzzy".
2007-05-23 04:25:38 · answer #2 · answered by copperhead 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
they do shed....they are a reptile. They only shed a small top layer of skin looks like a fingernail when it comes off. If he has white dots or swollen eyes or any other things going on then take him to the vet but otherwise give it a few weeks and it will be done. If ya have any questions email me I am a naturalist and my nature center has around 20 turtles at present. When he is done apply some vitashell to his shell and he's good to go.
2007-05-23 00:44:36 · answer #3 · answered by NatrGrrl 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
This is not normal. they do not shed scales. Your turtle needs your help. He probably has a fungal disease, which can (must) be treated. You can do this. check out the turtle trust web site, or other web sites by searching on turtle shell rot or turtle shell disease. You'll have to apply an anti-fungal like chlorhexadine daily and protect his shell. Also, you didn't say if he gets sunlight or a reptile light, but a fish (regular aquarium) or room light isn't adequate....they need UV exposure from sunlight or a full spectrum light to help control fungus. For now, however, you need to get right on treating him...you may find the articles on the web site and others interesting as well...especially read the answers to the frequently asked questions.
2007-05-22 23:50:26 · answer #4 · answered by fortysomething 1 · 2⤊ 1⤋
They are called scutes not tiles or scales. Yes turtles have scales, but not on their shells.
2007-05-23 01:32:07 · answer #5 · answered by Behind Green Eyes 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I have rescued RES for years and I have never seen anything like you describe. This is NOT normal. Please follow the advice given to you in the first answer.
2007-05-23 01:05:24 · answer #6 · answered by Darla G 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋