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My turtle's foot is swollen and he's floating sideways. Is he sick?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Aquatic Turtle | Male | unneutered

My turtle is having swelling in his foot finger.he is gaping his mouth when kept in water.he also floats sideways in water.please help me to cure him.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on February 10th, 2020

Thanks for reaching out about Tuktuk and including a photo. The foot appears to be infected. Is he housed with another turtle that could have bitten him? Or another type of wound. Water quality needs to be pristine to prevent further infection. Floating with one side dependent is often a sign of a congested lung, i.e. pneumonia. A veterinary visit is highly recommended as soon as possible, as systemic antibiotics are probably needed. Check and correct all husbandry parameters including water and basking temperatures, nutrition, and UVB exposure. Good luck.

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