General Care Discussion :: sick turtle?

[jesibug]

I have two baby turtles(about 6 mos old) that live in the same tank. The smallest is almost always basking. He just recently started extending his head out to where it looks as if it will come out of his shell and he keeps his eyes closed. He also isn't as active as he used to be. When I pick him up to examine him he doesn't react for some time. He doesn't have any miscolorations on his shell though. Is it likely that he is sick or just being lazy?

[missibsu]

Try answering some these questions. The more info you can provide, the more help we can give
http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2142

[jesibug]

How big is your turtle? about 3 in in diameter and he's not growing while the other turtle is
How long have you had it? since June 2006

What is the water temperature? about 82 degrees
Are you using a water heater? yes
How much water is in there? about 16 gallons
Are you using a water conditioner? yes
Are you using any filtration? yes

What is the basking temperature? not sure
Is there a basking light? yes
Is there a basking platform that is easy to climb on? yes
What kind is it or what is it made out of? plastic perch
Is there a UVB light? yes

What have you been trying to feed it? fish and krill sticks, turtle bites, lettuce, krill
When was the last time your turtle ate? last night 9/14/06 but only one turlte bite

How big is the tank/pond/enclosure? 20 gallons
Is the tank near a window? no
Is the tank in a room with a lot of activity? yes

Have you read the Basic Care section? yes
Have you searched the forums for similar situations? yes

Is there any other unusual activity/symptoms? she (I think) opens her mouth and makes a weird popping sound---- I think that she has a respiratory infection and the only thing that I have read about it says to take basic care and monitor the turtle. Is there anything else that can be done?

[missibsu]

I'm assuming that you have bumped up the temp to 82 because you believe he is sick, is that right?

You mentioned having more than one turtle. If one is really sick, then they should be separated.

Does the turtle open his mouth when he is basking, or in the water? If it's in the water, he could just be getting a drink.

Do you notice any other signs of RI? Lathargy, mucus from the nose, gasping for air?

The best thing that you can do, if you think that your turtle is sick, is to get an appt with a herp vet. If your turtle does have RI, there is a higher survival rate if caught and treated early.

[grey goose]

That open mouth and popping sound is a definate symptom of RI. Get him to a vet ASAP.