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My red ear slider's eyes are closed and he won't eat. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Unknown - Small Animal | Male

Actually my red ear slider turtle is not well. His both the eyes are closed from last 1month because of that he does not eat anything. I consulted 2 doctors but as such no improvement. They give multi vitamins enjection and feeds him but no improvement. Even yesterday after feeding bleeding has happened. Please help with any best doctor or medicines

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 14th, 2018

Most eye issues in red eared sliders is related to a vitamin A deficiency. This deficiency is caused by improper diet. You must correct his diet in order for him to get well. You also need to make sure everything else is correct - water temperature, basking temperature, cage size, etc. ( https://www.petcoach.co/article/vitamin-a-deficiency-signs-diagnosis-treatment-and-preventi/ ) Please realize that reptiles have a very slow metabolism. It takes a long time for them to show illness and subsequently, a long time to get well. So, this is not a quick fix. It may take months before he is back to normal. Be careful over-supplementing with Vitamin A, more is not better. You can cause an overdose if you give too much. That is why it is best to work with your vet. It sounds like they are on the right track with treatment.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 22nd, 2019

    Sounds like a vitamin A deficiency. Number one reason for this is improper diet. I suggest you refer to this link: ( https://www.petplace.com/article/reptiles/general/vitamin-a-deficiency-hypovitaminosis-a-in-turtles/ )

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 28th, 2017

    A vet exam is always recommended. IT appears to be Vitamin A deficiency - I think the fountain thing was just a coincidence. You can buy a Vitamin A eye drop to start putting in the eyes: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/zoo-med-repti-turtle-eye-drops Next, start him on a good diet. I don't know what you are currently feeding but I recommend this diet. https://www.chewy.com/mazuri-fresh-water-turtle-food-12-oz/dp/124764 Hope this helps. Best wishes!

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