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My pet turtle has a bruise or lesion on its head. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Aquatic Turtle | 0 lbs

My pet turtle has a what looks like a blood clot or bruise on top of her head

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on July 7th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about June. Lesions are common on the top of the head or neck in aquatic turtles, when they pull their heads in quickly and traumatize the skin on the front edge of the carapace. These lesions can then become secondarily infected by bacteria or fungus. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. But you also need to provide June with an environment that is less startling. Tanks should not be set up in a high traffic area where people are constantly crossing. Visual blinds (newspaper, etc) can be applied to the outside of the tank to provide a sense of security. Good luck.

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