General Care Discussion :: new to turtle care...

[clpalmer57]

But what does it look like when they shed their skin? If I didn't know better( I'm prayin') I'd say this is something I'd describe as fungus. It looks fuzzy and floats, sorta looks like dead skin, and you can't really see it unless they're in the water.

[untsmurf]

That sounds exactly what Mikey looks like when he sheds. It looks kind of fuzzy underwater. And you might see him biting himself or scratching on objects. This is an attempt to loosen the skin. If you're really worried about it, you can take a picture of your turtle while he's under water. This will help us diagnose your issue.

[clpalmer57]

No, I'm not worried but I'm realizing how much I don't yet know. My little Tonka is still sick but now he's eating and it's because I didn't know how to take care of him.
Can I gently wipe his feet and neck ? I have an infant washcloth I could use if it would help.

[marisa]

If it's just normal shedding, I'd let it come off one it's own. It's better to keep the water clean (shedding skin along with other debris in the tank will affect water quality).

[Bascomb]

clp-57 -- You need to let come off by itself. They do tend to try and eat it or get it off. It does look a little fuzzy at times. Pulling it off may cause some skin problems. Make sure that you stick to the basics ot temps, lighting, filters and clean water. b.