Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What does everybody think about adding low concentrations of salt to the water of softshell turtles. I've heard some European hobbyists swear by it and it may be useful in warding off infection, but is it really necessary?

Would it not sting their eyes?

Salt is great for keeping bacteria at bay, but it also dehydrates things.

Even a small amount of salt wouldn't feel good if it got into a sensitive orifice. And would you have to disolve it?

This is interesting.

It seems like it would but strangely enough the fly river turtle of new guinea supposedly ventures into brackish and even salt water, and they are one of the only completely aqatic turtle. I suppose to dissolve the salt you would just mix a small amount of aqaurium salt into the water after determining the volume but I really dont know.

It probably couldn't hurt. If you have a vet you can call just to confirm that it wouldn't hurt the turtle, that would be great. Just in case, you know.

But if many others have done it with no adverse affects, then why not?

I have never used salt for saltwaTer aquariums so to speak, but they do make salt for freshwater aquariums. I used it all the time in my fish aquariums and have used it before in my turtle aquariums. You should be able to pick it up at any petstore. Check out the link...

-Chris

Link

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Currently in the US Navy so I have sold off my collection. But over the years I have had dozens of turtles, fish, geckos, and other lizards. Cant wait to get back in the hobby once im out though!