My turtle is floating at the top. Is he sick or possibly dead?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My turtle is floating I don't know he is dead aur not... Please help??
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on February 21st, 2018
Take him out of the water. If he responds or retreats into his shell he is, obviously, alive. Have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. If he is floating and lethargic, he may be sick. This could be infection, malnutrition or parasites. Confirm proper environmental parameters for the species of turtle you have. Low temps can affect activity in reptiles. Feed an appropriate diet, commercial pellets supplemented with greens and some protein (crickets, feeder fish, earthworms). Dust food with a calcium/D3 powder and a multivitamin. Provide a UVB lightsource to promote shell health. If you post a new question with the species, I can provide more specific care information and a care sheet for future reference. You can also request a consultation to discuss the case in greater detail.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on August 31st, 2018
Brumation (hibernation) could be a reason. Typically though, as long as the temps are consistent year round, a non-breeding turtle does not need to brumate. Check the tank temps anyway. Low temps will affect activity in turtles. Dehydration may also cause lethargy. Give him a good, long soak in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. If he defecates in the bath, change it and continue the soak. This will provide supplemental heat as well as hydration. If he doesn't perk up, have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to diagnose and treat any illness or injury.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 31st, 2017
Box turtles need a fairly humid environment so that may be part of the problem. However looking at the pictures, I'm worried there also may be some nutritional deficiencies. If possible find a veterinarian comfortable treating reptiles to examine Squirtle. In the mean time give him soaks in warm water daily. You can also alternate soaks with carrot juice or green veggie juice. Either buy in the produce section of grocery or make your own by blending warm water with appropriate veggies. They absorb some nutrients this way and usually drink while soaking as well. Make if not humid outside to mist or house part of his enclosure daily. Here is a great article on box turtle care. Remember they can live 50+ years so make an investment in keeping him healthy for a lifelong pet. http://www.anapsid.org/box.html
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 24th, 2018
Maintain pristine water quality and proper water temperature. Provide a basking area with a heat lamp and unfiltered UVB lighting. Feed a balanced diet including prey (feeder fish, nightcrawlers, etc), fresh greens and vegetables and commercial pellets. Provide a multivitamin and calcium supplement in powdered forms. These can be sprinkled on the food. Bits of raw beef heart can be used to stimulate the appetite. Use a soft bristled toothbrush and diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) to cleanse the shell daily. Allow for a 1 hour dry dock (keep him out of the water) after each cleaning. Ideally, he should be examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles to confirm the infection and to administer medication if indicated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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