Turtle has black spots on its underside. Can I treat it at home?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Hello sir I have Indian soft shell turtle the problem is black spot on down side of my turtle and there are no pet doctor in my city please help me I'm also attaching the photos of my turtle
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 28th, 2018
This could be a fungal or bacterial infection. You can try to manage it at home by maintaining pristine water quality via filtration and regular partial water changes. Make sure any filter you have is rated for at least twice the volume of the tank. Remove any uneaten food promptly to prevent it from fouling the water. Use a soft bristled brush and a diluted betadine or chlorhexidine solution to gently scrub the affected areas daily. Keep the turtle out of the water fro an hour or two after each cleaning. If the spots do not begin to resolve within 5-7 days, you may need to seek veterinary attention.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on July 3rd, 2018
Hi there! I'm so sorry to hear about Shelby's troubles. First, I always ask if there is one turtle, or 2 or more housed in the same tank. The top of the head is common place for there to be trauma if the turtles are fighting. This is usually seen most in male turtles being housed together, but that doesn't mean turtles of different sexes can't fight too. Second, if Shelby is housed alone, it is important to check water quality. Here is a great website with information about that: http://www.redearslider.com/index_water_quality.html In addition, I would take Shelby to a vet that sees reptiles in your area. Shelby may need some antibiotics and something topical to apply to the spot. I hope this answer was helpful! Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 31st, 2019
It does appear to be an infection, injury or abnormal tissue. Ideally, Rock should be physically examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. The specific treatment will depend on the diagnosis. A bacterial infect will require antibiotics, a fungal infection will need anti-fungals. If it is abnormal tissue, a biopsy maybe needed to diagnose it. For now, maintain pristine water quality and proper environmental parameters. Make sure she continues to eat and behave normally.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 3rd, 2019
It looks like it could be a tiny abrasion. This can be due to swimming around or rubbing against tank furniture. Maintain pristine water quality and keep an eye it. Monitor for redness, discharge or bleeding. You can clean it daily with some diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) if necessary. Try to see what he or she may be rubbing against and remove it or relocate it.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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