Reptile & Amphibian Forums

He really seems to be happier now that he has the proper set up. My only concern is that he still doesn't seem to be eating. His eyes are still swollen, but I put eye drops in everyday. I was thinking maybe since he can't see well that he cannot find the food floating around. Another reason is that maye I need to turn the filter down so the current isn't doesn't make the food circle around his tank. I would appreciate any comments or help...

Hi, I turn my filter down every time I feed Mike. Since it's part of the feeding routine now, he knows it's feeding time and comes to the same corner of the tank. Try that. Make sure it's someplace he can get to easily but really try placing the food against the wall of the tank. It will stick there and it's easier for the turtle. Thats MY advice and works for me but its just a matter of experience and knowing your turtles habits.

Actually leave the filter off for a little while after feeding time. Timmy small so if you want, try feeding him twice a day. Scoop out any food after 1/2 hour because they won't touch it after it been in the water for a long time and all it does is break down and cruddy up the tank. And another thought, when you feed him, try putting his face by the food so he can smell it. He might still swim away and ignore it but eventually he'll eat. They smell really well so not seeing shouldn't be the reason for not eating. The buggers will eat anything.

>>He really seems to be happier now that he has the proper set up. My only concern is that he still doesn't seem to be eating. His eyes are still swollen, but I put eye drops in everyday. I was thinking maybe since he can't see well that he cannot find the food floating around. Another reason is that maye I need to turn the filter down so the current isn't doesn't make the food circle around his tank. I would appreciate any comments or help...

Turtles will not eat if they cannot open their eyes. I would
go to the drugstore and ask the pharmacist to show you where
Triple Antibiotic Ointment is. It is over the counter and
pretty inexpensive. Apply a small amount not directly in the
eyes but if the eyes are closed place a tiny bit over the the
lid of the eye. Remember don't use a lot, just a little. I
had good luck with a box turtle that had the same problem.

Try this one time first thing in the morning and then soak
the little guy in warm water a few minutes. You should get
good results. This along with proper temps should begin to
work. Just remember to monitor the temps, you don't want to
cook him. Do not give any extra Vitamin A either!

Right now keep the temps up and work to get his eyes open.
Other things can come later.

Linda