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I have been keeping healthy slider turtles for a few years. I received a quarter size turtle in bad condition. They couldn't tell me when she last ate. She's never been in a heated tank or had the benefit of lighting. She seems alert but will not eat. I have her in an inch of water and pedialyte mix. She's not strong enough to swim and I'm hoping to get her electrolytes in balance. Visually she looks ok but she hs a very swollen neck. My vet isn't in until Wed. of this week. Has anyone dealt with something like this? Does this sound like an abcess? I'll take any advice or suggestions. Thanks, Cindy

Hatchlings can get abscesses, though there could be a number of issues going on. I'd try the items on the entice eating page http://www.redearslider.com/entice_eating.html but also offer some privacy so the turtle can get used to her surroundings.

I'd start with tuna and live guppies and minnows.

How swollen? Are there any signs of injury on the neck at all?