Urgent Care :: Missing Shell

[wileytcat]

I just looked at my turtle this morning and noticed that part of his bottom shell is missing. His top shell has been sheading but the bottom is missing so much that his body is bulging out. Is this normal? He is about 11 years old.

[TheComputerGremlin]

Pictures, please!

During the shedding, did you in any way "assist" the shedding by pulling a scute off? Is there anything in the tank that he might have caught one of the shedding scutes on and pulled it off prematurely?

If you are 100% positive that you are seeing flesh where there should be shell, you should go to a vet. No, it's not normal, and the exposed flesh can get infected, which will likely kill him. If you cannot afford a vet or there isn't one in your area, you can try to treat him yourself, but it's no substitution for a vet's care.

A link to minor first aid is here:
http://www.redearslider.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=4519

This sounds more like major first aid ... I would recommend posting pictures as soon as possible so we can help you assess what you are seeing and you can find a vet too.

[bradmeisel]

I second what computer gremlin said.

[marisa]

Welcome. Post a picture of the plastron when the shell is dry.

[wileytcat]

Ok, after he got moving around... his shell is fine. He was just hanging OVER the shell. Maybe I need to put him on a diet? He seems fine, but I am SO glad I found this site. I am learning so much..

He is loosing his shell "top" but that all seems very normal.

Thanks!

[worldpeace]

I think what you're trying to say is that he is shedding. Which is perfectly fine.

[bradmeisel]

glad to hear he is OK.