General Care Discussion :: Constipated turtle

[Bumby's Mom]

Nyxie is constipated, I don't know how long she has been but I noticed last night. She was basking on her dock and I heard kicking so I look in and she was kicking at her bum and then she dove into the water and kept kicking at her bum. Today when I got home she was in the water kicking at her bum so I put her in the sink with some warm water but nothing happened. I probably didn't leave her in the water long enough since after a few minutes she wanted out. What exactly can I do for her? I tried calling the vets office but they were already closed for the day. She is a painted, not a RES (I don't think that matters but wanted to mention it anyway). Thanks in advance.

[marisa]

I'd try putting in a bit warmer water again and see if it doesn't work the second time. Leave her in a bit longer. Don't remove her just because she wants out.

[Bumby's Mom]

I will try it again a little later. She is basking right now so I will let her be. I also bumped her water up to 80 thinking that might help. I thought i read somewhere about feeding them lettuces but she she dislikes lettuce Hopefully I can get her to poop, if not she will be going to the vets on Saturday (the next day the vet is in).

[mikee]

Putting the water at 80 is a good idea. When mine get constipated I do this: First. I am not a vet. Turtles can not digest mineral oil. If you turtle is still eating, I dip a stick of pellet in the mineral oil and let him have it. Try a couple and watch him. The oil will slick up the innnards and go on through. This is my way. ---