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My 5-month-old red-eared slider has a soft shell. Should I worry?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I have a red eared slider turtle of 5 months old. Recently his shell has become soft from edges is this something i should worried of. And if i am doing something wrong please tell a proper way to pet him.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 24th, 2018

Sam may not be getting enough calcium and UVB light exposure. This can lead to a soft shell. Make sure he has at least 30-60 minutes of exposure to full, unfiltered sunlight each day or provide a UVB light source in his tank. It should be no more than 12-16 inches from the surface of the basking area depending on the type of bulb. It should not be blocked by glass, plexiglass or fine mesh. The ZooMed ReptiSun bulb is an excellent light source. Feed a commercial pelleted diet and supplement with fresh greens and prey. Dust with a calcium supplement and a multivitamin. Leave a cuttlebone in the tank as a source of calcium that can be munched on when needed. It would appear there may be a vitamin A deficiency based on the swollen eyes in the image posted. Feed red or orange vegetables and dark, leafy greens as these contain higher levels of vitamin A. ZooMed Repti Turtle Eye Drops should also help. You can find it online or in most pet stores. The link below will provide more information regarding the care and husbandry of sliders. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on March 16th, 2018

    Given Shiro's size/age, the shell may be a bit pliable yet. Be sure to provide UVB lighting. It should be no more than 14 inches away from the basking spot and not blocked by glass, plexiglass or fine mesh. Feed a quality commercial pellet or stick diet and supplement with a calcium powder and a multivitamin. A piece of cuttlebone can be left in the tan for Shiro to munch on.

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