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Why is my red-eared slider turtle lethargic but still eating?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I believe my red eared slider turtle is sick. She normally is active but has been staying in one spot for the past couple of days. She has still been eating though, What should I do??

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 16th, 2017

Sorry to hear about Pokey! I would certainly be concerned about her as lethargy in an otherwise active turtle could certainly be a sign of disease. Firstly, I would have a really good look at her and see if there are any other signs such as damage to her shell, rapid breathing etc. If you notice anything I would go to a herp vet asap. If she seems fine aside from being lerhargic, and is continuing to eat well my first step would be to look at the housing. Make sure her water is clean and filters are working well. Secondly you can increase the temperature of the air and water by a few degrees as she may be lethargic due to being too cold. If this does not help go to the reptile vet. Consider your general husbandary, does she get UVA and UVB? Calcium, temperature regulation, water quality etc? Hopefully she will respond well to a slight increase in temperature though. Good luck!

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1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr Stafford, BVetMed, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sorry to hear about Pokey! I would certainly be concerned about her as lethargy in an otherwise active turtle could certainly be a sign of disease. Firstly, I would have a really good look at her and see if there are any other signs such as damage to her shell, rapid breathing etc. If you notice anything I would go to a herp vet asap. If she seems fine aside from being lerhargic, and is continuing to eat well my first step would be to look at the housing. Make sure her water is clean and filters are working well. Secondly you can increase the temperature of the air and water by a few degrees as she may be lethargic due to being too cold. If this does not help go to the reptile vet. Consider your general husbandary, does she get UVA and UVB? Calcium, temperature regulation, water quality etc? Hopefully she will respond well to a slight increase in temperature though. Good luck!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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