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My aquatic turtle is swollen. Is it kidney failure or something else?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Exotic | Unknown - Exotic | Female | unspayed

I have a female aquatic turtle of 9 years old and it is swollen like a balloon, here there is no veterinarian that knows about turtles, I read that it could be kidney failure please help me

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 25th, 2018

Kidney disease is one possibility. Bacterial infection or nutritional deficiencies are other possibilities. Without a physical exam and diagnostics, it is difficult, if not impossible, to determine the exact cause. Sisi should be seen by a veterinarian, any veterinarian, for an exam. It is possible a specialist can be reached by phone or online to assist your veterinarian. In the meantime, provide clean water at the proper temperature, a heat source and UVB light source for basking and an appropriate diet. Commercial turtle sticks or pellets can be fed. Supplement with fresh greens and vegetables. A calcium and multivitamin supplement should be sprinkled on food several times weekly as well. It appears that you have a Yellow-Headed Sideneck turtle. You can find a care sheet here: http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/cs-yellowheadedamazon.htm

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