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My Red-Eared Slider has retained scutes and a wavy shell. Help!

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other

Hello good evening /day i have a question regarding my RES, it seems it has retained scutes and I'm not sure How to help ;it's Pleurals is also wavyish so I'm not sure if it's normal or if something wrong; I am also concerned about that and also if it's normal for it's pleurals to have a light brownish lines or somthing. I'm so confused and concerned. Thank you for your time

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on January 10th, 2018

Retained scutes may be caused by poor husbandry. Confirm adequate water quality, temperatures, UVB lighting and nutrition. Make sure the basking area is completely out of the water. Add foods high in vitamin E and calcium to promote shell health. Limit protein as this can cause rapid growth and lead to pyramiding. Monitor for signs of infection such as soft or pitted areas on the shell, fungal/bacterial growth, bleeding or lethargy. The following link will provide more information regarding care and husbandry of sliders. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html

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