Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My baby red eared slider turtle has some white spots on its shell. What should I do?
4 Answers
Published on March 6th, 2020
Thanks for reaching out about Kelby and including photos. Can you gently scratch the white areas with your fingernail? Is so, probably mineral accumulations from the water and not a problem. If not, this could be keratin erosion from sub-standard water quality, infections, too cold of an environment. A veterinary visit would be recommended. Good luck.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Published on March 5th, 2020
The skin of turtles periodically (and normally) sheds off in pieces. In the water, it appears as whitish, "fuzzy" stuff coming off the skin that people may mistaken for fungus or other disease. I would not be worried about it at this stage. Check the shell closely for any signs of abnormalities in the shell suggesting disease. If you are not sure then see your veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Published on September 2nd, 2019
Thanks for reaching out about Bucky and including photos. The white areas are exposed bone and needs to be addressed by a veterinarian. Water must be kept in a pristine condition. A topical antibiotic can be applied in a thin layer but systemic antibiotic are likely needed. Good luck.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Published on September 28th, 2018
The spots on the scutes down the center look like they have some air or water underneath them. This happens when a turtle is ready to shed. This is normal. Do not attempt to peel the scutes off or remove them yourself. They will come off on their own.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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