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Reptiles/RES out growing his shell

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Expert: Chelsey - 9/15/2006


Question
hi, i have 7 baby RES. Most of my turtles are about 2-3 inches big. One of my turtles seem to be out growing his/her shell where you can see its hind legs bulging out (his thighs) like as if it was swelling and its shell seems to have like dry spots. Only the thighs are big compared to the other 6. i feed all the turtles at the same time, all together & everyone of them gets a fair share, but why is only one of my turtles getting fat or whatever it is? THANKS FOR YOUR TIME -gen

by the way my turtle swims as if theres no problem. he/she is more of an ugly duckling =]

Answer
Hey Gen,
It could be a few different things.

He could just be one the hefty side. He might eat the left over food that floats around in the tank, and might get more than you think.

Also, if you don't have the correct lighting in the tank   -or-  if you bought them from someone that previously didn't have the correct lighting, or if they don't get fed enough calcium or too much phosphorous, then the turtle could have a shell disorder. It is similar to osteoporosous in humans, when the bone doesn't get enough calcium they get weak.  The shell is all bone, so if the turtle has a lack of calcium or correct lighting, then the bone won't develope right.

I suggest a vet visit, and if the other babies haven't gone yet since you got them/ hatched them then you should get them a check up too. It might not be anything to worry about, but it could also be dangerous to the turtle's health. if you have any more questions feel free to ask.

good luck with all of those babies!!
best wishes, chelsey

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Chelsey

Expertise

I can answer questions on specifically Anoles, Iguanas, and Red Eared Sliders. I also know about tree frogs, but only feeding and keeping them healthy, not breeding or sexing. I can answer questions on most turtles/tortoises, lizards, frogs, and fish(in the fish section, please!) I don't know much about snakes, but I can give some questions a good shot. I know about sexing and breeding with the species I specified before, but probably not with others. I can, however, give good tips on feeding, housing, and caring for most reptiles.

Experience

I have been around reptiles since I was very little and know how to take care of them. I know all about the certain types of lighting and calcium needed to prevent bone deformities, and the correct diet for reptiles(and frogs!) I can give good tips on breeding with some species, and help differenciate males from females, and how to take care of the young and the eggs. I also know about certain hibernation needs.

Education/Credentials
I am still in school, but don't let that fool you. I am very confident and experienced with reptiles, and know the answers to most questions. I don't just impulse buy pets, I research them and get their home set up before hand. I raise my pets so they live happily and healthy their whole lives, and don't hesitate on spending money for them. I think I can help many people with their questions, and help them raise their pets successfully.
**PLEASE!!** I love answering people's questions, but it really is aggrevating when I spend a long time typing up an answer to someone's question and they never read the response. If you aren't going to check for an answer, please don't waste my time. If you will read the answer, then feel completely free to ask!!!!

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