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Softshell turtle shell swollen with hole, no vet nearby. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Hello! Im worried about my softshell turtle as there is no vet here in my place to bring it to so you guys is my only hope. My softshell turtle shell start to have a hole and it gradually became a big swollen and i dont know what to do.

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on May 6th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about your turtle. Unfortunately, the pictures are too dark to determine a lesion. A veterinary visit would work the best but if none available you could try applying a topical antibiotics ointment. A petroleum based product will adhere better in water but is still likely to wash off. Keep water quality as pristine as possible. Systemic antibiotics (injections) would improve chance of success. Good luck.

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