Aquatic Turtle Diseases

A poor diet and inadequate habitat set-up leads to the majority of diseases experienced by aquatic turtles. From improperly regulated temperatures in the turtle's habitat to a lack of filtration in the pet's water, aquatic turtles commonly suffer diseases of the shell, skin and bones. When detected early, most aquatic turtle diseases can be treated successfully by a veterinarian. Keep the turtle warm (around 85 degrees Fahrenheit) until your vet appointment so the turtle's immune system can fight the illness.

  1. Bacterial Eye Infection

    • Aquatic turtles living in unfiltered (or poorly filtrated) water commonly suffer from bacterial eye infections. The turtle's eyes may swell shut, look puffy or emit a white discharge as signs of infection. To remedy the illness, a veterinarian can prescribe topical antibiotics.

      To prevent this ailment, the turtle's aquarium should receive a water change twice a week, with at least half of the water removed and replenished with fresh, dechlorinated water each time. In addition, once a week, the habitat should be fully emptied and sanitized with a 3 percent bleach-water solution to remove any bacterial growth.

    Metabolic Bone Disease

    • A deficiency in calcium and poor lighting can cause an aquatic turtle's shell to become overly soft and misshapen. This disease is known as metabolic bone disease (MBD) or soft shell syndrome. Weakness in the legs and difficulty eating are symptoms associated with diseases of the shell. Calcium injections, a balanced diet and exposure to UV-B light may help the turtle recover. When the shell feels soft to the touch, the bony structure underneath the shell is damaged. Often, shell rot or shell infection accompanies MBD. The outer shell may become discolored, and infection may be found under the shell in the bony layer. MBD is often fatal and should be addressed by a veterinarian as soon as it is discovered.

    Respiratory Infection and Pneumonia

    • If the turtle is wheezing to catch his breath, has a discharge from his nose or is holding his head at irregular angles, he may have a respiratory infection. If left untreated, respiratory infection can lead to pneumonia, and the turtle will be lethargic with very weak use of his legs. A veterinarian can administer an antibiotic injection to treat this illness.

    Hemorrhages

    • If soft, fleshy areas are exposed, the aquatic turtle may have experience hemorrhaging from a heater burn or abrasion from colliding with the decor in his tank. Bacterial infections of the site are probable, which can lead to a spread and widening of the soft exposed tissues. A veterinarian can clean and remove dead tissue then apply a topical antibiotic. Reduce the chances of hemorrhages by removing any decorations with rough or broken edges.