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My turtles shell is very flaky and there are white/discolored spots all over it. I thought it was just shedding but it’s been like this for a very long time, plus it’s tearibg away at the top layer of shell, while the next layer is cloudy and white. I’m really scared and worried about her. She is a 7 inch long red eared slider turtle

My turtles shell is very flaky and there are white/discolored spots all over it. I thought it was just shedding but it’s been like this for a very long time, plus it’s tearibg away at the top layer of shell, while the next layer is cloudy and white. I’m really scared and worried about her. She is a 7 inch long red eared slider turtle

Updated On June 23rd, 2018

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Answered By Miranda Sadar, DVM, DACZM

Veterinarian

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

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Thank you for the pictures - they are very helpful. I am sorry that this is happening to Finley! Her shell looks very dry - I am not sure if you dried her for the picture, or if she is not hanging out in her water enough. If she is not utilizing her water source enough, that could cause her shell to get dry and flaky. With your description of the shell looking cloudy and white underneath the layer, it could also be that there is an infection (bacterial, fungal) of the shell. If the water quality in Finley's enclosure is not adequate, this can result in infections. I would recommend that you take Finley to a veterinarian who is familiar with reptiles. To find one in your area, you can visit the ARAV website. The veterinarian will ask about Finley's husbandry set up and diet, and will perform a thorough examination of her. They then can take samples of the flaky, white, cloudy areas of the shell to evaluate for culture to determine if there is an infectious reason for it to look abnormal. They may also prescribe treatments, such as antibiotics, or have suggestions for husbandry changes, depending on what they find. Please do not give Finely any human medications, as they can be harmful for our scaled friends. I hope that gives you a place to start, and I hope Finley feels better soon!

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