Turtle Skin Disease

Having a turtle as a pet is a unique and interesting experience that can provide years of enjoyment. While turtles and tortoises that are provided good care generally remain healthy, occasionally they may get sick. This may include illnesses of the shell or skin that will require treatment. Your veterinarian can help you to decide the best course to take to help your pet return to optimal health.

  1. Parasites

    • Parasites such as mites and ticks can infest the skin of your pet and may be very visible to the naked eye. In particular, turtles and tortoises that are gathered from the wild should be examined for any infestation.

      You may be tempted to pull mites or ticks off your pet. However this can actually do more harm than good. Parts of the parasite may be left in the skin, causing infection. To eliminate these parasites, contact your veterinarian for treatment options.

    Fungal infections

    • Skin infections caused by fungus are common among water turtles. Fungal infections may appear as white patches on the skin and whitish areas on the shell that look as if it had been sanded. This is usually caused by poor water quality and can normally be prevented by good filtration and regular water changes.

    Bacterial Infections

    • A variety of bacterial infections can occur in turtles and tortoises, affecting the skin and shell. While most bacterial infections are caused by unsanitary living conditions and direct exposure of the skin to bacteria, systemic bacterial infections can also affect the shell and skin of your pet. Bacterial infections often leave the skin and shell appearing chalky or flaky.

      Also, both turtles and tortoises are susceptible to Shell Rot, a common bacterial infection that causes open lesions on the shell and skin. This disease may advance to a systemic infection and threaten the life of your pet if not treated quickly.

    Nutritional deficiencies

    • The shell, as part of the skin of a turtle or tortoise, is made primarily of calcium. A lack of calcium and other minerals in the diet of turtles and tortoises can lead to softening of the shell. Insufficient exposure to natural ultraviolet light can also prevent proper absorption of calcium.

    Treatment

    • If you suspect your tortoise or turtle is suffering from a skin or shell disease, consult your veterinarian immediately.

      For any external parasites, contact your veterinarian to obtain a miticide treatment specific to turtles and tortoises.

      Fungal infections can be treated with 2 tablespoons of aquarium salt per gallon of water. Allow the infected animal to soak in the solution twice a day for four to five days.

      For bacterial infections, antibiotics can be prescribed by your veterinarian to treat the illness.

      For nutritional deficiencies, an increase in calcium intake in the diet, as well as adequate exposure to ultraviolet light, will help to alleviate symptoms.