How to Identify a Sick Turtle

One reason pet owners enjoy turtles is because they are easy to care for. In fact, a healthy pet turtle can easily outlive its owner with some turtles even living past their 100th birthday. However, improper temperature, stress, poor nutrition and unsanitary conditions make turtles susceptible to illness and disease. Learn the signs of a sick turtle so you can provide the appropriate treatment.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Track the turtle's activity level. Although turtles aren't known for their high energy levels, sick turtles are even more lethargic and inactive than usual.

2. Record the turtle's level of food intake. Although turtles can remain healthy without eating for days or even weeks, a sudden decrease in food intake can be a symptom of a sick turtle.

3. Look for any lumps or bumps on the turtle's head, tail or legs. Eye or cheek infections can cause swelling that appears as asymmetries on the turtle.

4. Observe the turtle's eyes. Sick turtles may have cloudy eyes, puffy eyes or may keep their eyes closed most of the time. Eye problems can indicate dietary insufficiencies or poor water quality.

5. Take sneezing in turtles seriously. A common cold in a turtle can progress into pneumonia quickly.

6. Listen for breathing sounds from the turtle. The respiration in healthy turtles is inaudible. Gasping, excessive gaping or raspy breath sounds can indicate a respiratory infection.

7. Examine the turtle's shell and skin for white or fuzzy patches of growth. Fungal growths can cause patchy growths and owners must treat them to prevent serious shell-rot issues from occurring.