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I have a young red ear slider, about 1 1/2 inches in size, that recently got an RI. I only noticed the symptoms a few days ago (lopsided swimming came first, and then yesterday I noticed breathing trouble for the first time). I brought the turtle to the vet only a few days after the symptoms began (the earliest I was able to) and he is on his first round of antibiotics. What I'd like to know is, from other people's experiences with baby turtles who have contracted RI's, what is the likelihood of survival? My baby turtle has been fairly active and eating well since I noticed the symptoms, and has been basking under 90 degree heat and a UV lamp, with 80 degree water. If anyone has had experience with baby turtle's and RI's, please let me know how the situation turned out. I'm very worried and am looking for some encouraging information!

Thank you!

kibouOyl03: You definitely did the right thing by getting your RES to the vet asap. Hats off yo you mate!!

My RES had an RI when I first got her. They have a very good chance of survival if you take them to a vet and get antibiotics for them. Just continue with the meds and keep temperatures warm and your RES should make a full recovery!!!

Good for you for noticing the symptoms and getting appropriate care - you did everything right Good luck and keep us posted on your RES's progres

Thank you both! This definitely helps ease the worry a bit!

KibouOyl03,

Your turtle's chance of survival is quite high, after you got it to a vet for antibiotics
and it's showing good progress by being active and eating. One of my turtles was
in a worse condition than yours: lethargic and not eating for about a month.
The antibiotics and feeder worms reversed the condition though. It's thriving now.

Good luck and good job on treating your turtle!

Thank you all for the encouraging support! My baby turtle is already looking much better (no more lopsided swimming!)

how do the vets give them antibiotics? do they inject into the turtles directly? are there droplets that they put into the water as well? just curious

You can also get certain antibiotics as a pill but it's usefulness depends if the turtle is able/willing to accept them.