I have two red ear sliders since 9 months ago, I believe they are 1 year old by now. From last weak the smaller one seems to be sleepy most of the time, she hides her head beneath the stone I have put in their bowl and when she is not under that stone she just closes her eyes and no move, but at times she seems normal. what's wrong with her? what shall I do for them?
2007-09-19 18:17:52 · 5 answers · asked by hana 2 in Pets ➔ Reptiles
The three most common problems in situations like this are:
1. Water is too cold. Make sure the water is 75-80F. This usually means a good water heater.
2. Tank is too small. Give your turtles plenty of room- it not only helps them grow better, but it reduces stress and aggression. Aim for about 10 gallons of water per inch of total shell length. If you have 2 2" turtles, for example, they ought to be in about 40 gallons fo water, or a mostly filled 75 gallon tank.
3. Diet is another issue. Too many turtles are given poor diets.
For good diet and care info in general, try http://www.redearslider.com and see how your cares match to their suggestions.
Good luck!
2007-09-20 06:11:08 · answer #1 · answered by Madkins007 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Check your set up:
1. Heat basking lamp, around 90F.
2. UVB bulb within 12 inches and changed every 6 months.
3. Large tank (10gal/inch of shell)
4. Water heater.
5. Water filter.
6. Frequent water changes
7. Variety of diet and nutritional supplements
8. No gravel or loose substrate in tank.
More info:
http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/caresheet-red_ear_slider.htm
2007-09-20 10:55:27 · answer #2 · answered by KimbeeJ 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Is the temperature lower than it was when you got her?
If so, she may need some heating as turtles will hibernate when the temperature drops below a certain level.
If the turtles are very young and have not built up enough food stores in their bodies, an early hibernation will kill them.
Try to warm her up and then watch her appetite return.
2007-09-20 07:00:00 · answer #3 · answered by iamaustralian 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
They are getting older, as they grow older, animals need mroe sleep, its usally the younger animals which play and run around a lot. But as one of them is sleepy and the other isn't, it is a strnage pemonimon, try to contactg your local vet for instant details.
2007-09-20 02:03:47 · answer #4 · answered by Guest 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Maybe she's growing, they say they grow in their sleep?
2007-09-20 12:16:44 · answer #5 · answered by B 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋