General Care Discussion :: Quick answer please. How cold is too cold?

[Billy Black]

I just cleaned out my turtle's tank and replaced it with new water. Not really thinking about it, I replaced it with cold water. Well the heater is on, but it's taking forever. It says it's at 72 right now. I've already put my few fish back in and they seem to be fine, but I'm afraid to risk it with my turtle.

It feels pretty cold to me and I don't want him to get shock from the cold temperature. Is he going to be ok until the heater adjusts the temperature correctly? Or do I have to wait for it to get warmer?

[Billy Black]

Oh, and the reason why I asked for a quick answer is because he's kinda sitting out in the open right now. I've got a light shining on him, so he's mostly basking, but I can't really leave the room when he's out like that.

[flutterby]

I think he'll be fine, but he's also ok basking while it heats up.

[CountryGirl68]

You can always put a wet towel in the container with him so he can burrow under if he wants. That's what's suggested when traveling with turtles.

[Billy Black]

Thank you. The temperature says 74 now. I put him in, and he seems to be doing fine.