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Baby turtle not eating still

PostPosted: Sun Jun 13, 2010 1:01 pm
by ItsVicc
Hi everyone, my turtle was eating about a week ago until I did a water change and now he hasn't been eating for a while. Every time I give him food, he will open and close his mouth repeatably and end up not eating. What's wrong with him? He seems healthy and basks regularly.


How big is your turtle? small, under 4"
How long have you had it? couple of weeks

What is the water temperature? 80F
Did you use a thermometer? yes
Are you using a water heater? yes
How much water is in there? about half the tank
Are you using a water conditioner? yes
Are you using any filtration? yes

What is the basking temperature? not sure, but I have a heat light
Is there a basking light? yes
Is there a basking platform that is easy to climb on? yes
What kind is it or what is it made out of? it's a plastic rock that sticks on to the side of the tank
Is there a UVB light? yes

What have you been trying to feed it? pellets and turtle treats
When was the last time your turtle ate? a week ago i think

How big is the tank/pond/enclosure? 20 gallon
Is the tank near a window? yes
Is the tank in a room with a lot of activity? yes

Have you read the Basic Care section? yes
Have you searched the forums for similar situations? yes

Is there any other unusual activity/symptoms? won't eat

PostPosted: Sun Jun 13, 2010 3:54 pm
by steve
He might be a little stressed at the moment. What kind of treats have you tried? Boiled white chicken meat and canned tuna are some good options. If that still doesn't get his interest, I would try some live prey.

Re: Baby turtle not eating still

PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2010 3:19 am
by mika
my situation same as ItsVicc.
I have tried several foods, but useless. Some more simptoms that i can see is while i put it in water, some bubble come out from its nose and doesnt swim with just hang in the water. Occasionally open its mouth for 3-5 seconds. Always stay at dry place. lastly, its head moving out long and sleep. Sorry with my poor english. :(

Re: Baby turtle not eating still

PostPosted: Tue Sep 28, 2010 1:37 pm
by marisa
Welcome. I wouldn't get too worried over bubbles in the water---if he's on the basking area and bubbles start coming from the nose, that's another story...Is there anything (mucus) coming from the nose or mouth at all? When you say his neck is "out long and sleep," do you mean he's sleeping with his neck extended? Does he struggle to breathe at all?

When you say your situation is the same, have you had your turtle for a while but recently changed or cleaned out his tank and now he won't eat? Or, did you recently get him?

How long has he not been eating?

What kind of set-up does he have (does he have a water heater, filter, basking area, correct lighting, etc.)?