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Our red eared slider Turtle has developed some white patches on his upper shell. He seems fine otherwise but the spots are slowly spreading. He gets natural sunlight outside 5 days a week but we are worried this may not be enough. A few pieces of his underneath shell have also peeled off last week. The tank water is well heated and filtered. Thanks

Our red eared slider Turtle has developed some white patches on his upper shell. He seems fine otherwise but the spots are slowly spreading. He gets natural sunlight outside 5 days a week but we are worried this may not be enough. A few pieces of his underneath shell have also peeled off last week. The tank water is well heated and filtered. Thanks

Updated On February 13th, 2018

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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You can use a UVB bulb indoors to supplement lighting. Be sure it is no more than 14-16 inches away from the surface of the basking spot and not blocked by glass or plexiglass. A multivitamin and a calcium/D3 supplement should also be used. Float a cuttlebone in the tank. Bongo will munch on it when needed. You can use a soft bristled brush and diluted betadine to gently scrub the affected areas. Dry dock (keep out of the water) him for about 1-2 hours after cleaning daily. If the spots do not resolve, have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating turtles. Read more about slider care here: http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html

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