General Care Discussion :: Is this shell normal?

[cprcheetah]

I just got my turtle yesterday. But in looking at pictures and someone replied that they thought his shell wasn't right. By his head is what I'm concerned about, how it's kind of pointed. Shouldn't the whole shell be rounded?





I am thinking that his shell may have cracked and/or broke at one point, or that he has vitamin deficiencies, all they were feeding him was Turtle Pellets, no fresh foods, no vitamins nothing. Which I am amazed he survived 5 years on that diet. Anyways am I just being paranoid and it's normal? Or is there something wrong with him? I am going to have my vet (dad) also do a full physical check up on him tomorrow, maybe he can figure out his problem. My husband thinks I'm crazy, I've already grated some carrots and am getting some Romaine ready to feed him. I hope he likes it. I told my husband, we spoil the rest of the kids (fur only) why can't Zeke get spoiled too? He deserves the best and that's all he's going to get from now on. Poor guy was neglected for so many years.

[missibsu]

Some turtles have shells with uniquenesses. In your case, the two scutes up by the head look like they need to shed. There also appear to be some growth rings which can appear when the turtle has grown too fast. Since you just got the turtle, you have already said it is becuase of his previous environment. Starting him on a healthier diet and a proper set up won't mean that the shell issue will go away, but it could improve it!

I wouldn't worry unless the shell itself gets worse, it has open sores, or it seems to distressing the turtle in some way. A vet visit would be a good thing...your dad isn't by chance a herp vet is he? That would be even better!

[cprcheetah]

He is not a 'herp' vet particularly, but does treat a fair amount of exotics, and tries to stay abreast of their treatment and care. He will research anything he doesn't know. He has been a vet for 35+ years so has seen many many animals in his day. Not too many people around here bring their exotics in for routine vet care except when it's too late. As many hide their symptoms.

[missibsu]

Very true...what you said about hiding their symptoms...

Keep us posted on what your dad has to say.