Generally speaking, aquatic turtles will peel their shells much more often than other types. I went to take the "scutes" off, but it wasn't easy, so I didn't get any off because I was worried on what was under neath or what it even was.

Shell problems can be quite serious, especially in baby turtles.

Here’s what it will look like: You will see brighter, denser white spots that are all over the place, or in one location.

The reason for your turtle’s white shell color could also be due to a fungal infection or shell rot rather than hard water.

If your painted turtle has a soft or squishy shell, it could be a sign of metabolic bone disease (MBD). Swab the area with the dilute povidone-iodine solution again. Turtle shell rot usually occurs when a scratch, puncture, or crack is left untreated.

It is more common among aquatic turtle as they spend more time in a humid environment which is conducive to the growth of bacteria and fungus. If it’s a fungal infection though, it won’t be evenly coated and distributed. IT MAY MEAN LIFE OR DEATH FOR A TURTLE!

Shell rot is usually caused by bacteria, however, in some cases, fungal agents can be responsible. Shell rot is a common problem that can be treated with the right tools and knowledge. A. It is your job as a diligent turtle owner to check your turtle(s) for shell rot.

Hopefully, you can see why I am urging you to find a herp vet who can diagnose the problem and treat it … Painted Turtle Care Any cracks or fractures in the shell due to impact require veterinary attention. Does the Painted Turtle Make a Good Pet. If left untreated, or if treated improperly, this can lead to systemic infection, liver damage, paralysis and death. Swab the infected area of the shell with a diluted povidone-iodine solution. These bacterial or fungal infections are often secondary to trauma, burns, or bites. Shell problems now can impact the turtle for the rest of its life, so it’s not something to take lightly.

Two weeks later, and I need some more experienced opinions on whether or not a trip to a reptile vet is in order. Shell peel is thus, a natural defensive mechanism against this. The reason for this is that shell rot and parasitic infection are much prone to occur in the water, and so turtles that spend a higher proportion of their lives in said water, are much more at risk from this. Eastern Painted Turtle Shell Rot (Two week update) By TurtleManNate, November 19, 2013 in Basking Log.

Recommended Posts. Puffy eyes or discharge from the eyes and nose are other symptoms that could indicate illness.