Expert: Debbie Zajchowski - 10/21/2006

Question
i have a pet red eared slider and for the past few days, he has remained in the same position with his eyes closed. when he opens his eyes and moves a little bit, he keeps on opening his mouth. today i went to clean his tank and noticed he wouldnt move, open his eyes or even swim away when i touched him. i am worried. is he hirbernating. could you please email ASAP?

Answer
Hi Harhita,

My first suggestion is to seek veterinary care as it sounds as though your turtle is sick.  Opening the mouth can suggest a respiratory infection and this would need antibiotics. General sluggish behavior, if not related to environmental problems, is another symptom of illness.  By the time symptoms are noted, the illness is a bit advanced as turtles mask symptoms quite well.

The turtle may also be too cold and I don't have any information on how the setup is, so will generalize a bit, just in case.  Water temperatures should be in the 72-74 degree range and the basking area should be in the 90 degree range. The basking area should be large enough for the turtle to fully emerge from the water and dry out. It also gives the turtle the ability to warm its body. It could be a slow down and the turtle could be getting ready to hibernate if temperatures are too cold.