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My red ear slider turtle's shell is cracking. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My turtle shell is cracking red ear slider

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 7th, 2017

Cracking can be due to infection, poor water quality or poor nutrition/lighting. Have Shelly examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose and treat any infection. Signs include pitting, bleeding or a very soft shell. Half the diet should be plant matter with one quarter made up of commercial sticks or pellets and one quarter animal protein. UVB lighting should be provided and water quality maintained. You can follow this link to an article about proper care and nutrition for sliders. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on June 19th, 2017

    Have Dominic examined by an experienced herp veterinarian to make sure what you are seeing is not serious. Confirm adequate UVB lighting as well as calcium supplementation. A weak or soft shell may be indicative of a lack of either.

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