What to Do for Fungi on a Turtle?

Turtles are relatively easy pets to care for. They must be well fed and their surroundings kept clean. A good diet and clean environment go a long way toward preventing illness and disease. However, despite the best of efforts, occasionally a health problem does arise, such as fungi on a turtle. With proper care, fungus on a turtle can be dealt with successfully, and the turtle can be restored to health. Not dealing with fungi on a turtle can result in serious illness, perhaps even death in extreme cases.

  1. Remove Turtle From Tank

    • Remove the turtle from its tank, because the tank is contaminated by the fungi. Put the turtle into another tank and allow the turtle to dry out. Vigorously clean and disinfect the original tank and everything in it. You can use a solution of one part chlorine bleach to 100 parts water to do this, according to veterinary technician Scott Howard. Be sure to rinse well before returning the turtle to its original, freshly cleaned tank. The turtle should not be returned to the original tank until the fungi is gone.

    Disinfect the Turtle

    • Disinfecting the turtle is done by first washing the turtle. Gently scrub off anything that doesn't belong on the shell or skin with a brush. Gently scrape the shell clean if brushing doesn't get everything off. Put the turtle in a solution that is made up of one part povidone iodine or Betadine to 100 parts water. Let the turtle soak in this solution for 10 to 15 minutes before removing the turtle from the solution and allowing it to dry. The turtle should not be left dry any longer than about two and one-half hours.

    Topically Treat the Fungi

    • The fungi sites are typically white patches, but can also be yellow or brown. After the turtle is dry, use an antibiotic ointment with Betadine on each of the fungus patches. This should be done every day until the fungi on the turtle is gone. Clean the tank daily, changing the water, to prevent re-infection during this process.

    Supplement the Diet

    • Add a little vitamin C to the turtle's food every day to strengthen its immune system. This will help the turtle regain its health.