Reptile & Amphibian Forums

We have a box turtle that is only an indoors midwestern turtle. He currently will only eat Romaine lettuce, he's finiky, and we use a UVB bulb for his shell health. We noticed his skin has started to bulge from around his shell and the shell itself is cracking. We took him to the local vet which said there is nothing we can do. He is outgrowing his shell and will die soon. Is this true? Is there a way to make his shell grow? We got him at a couple years old and have tried vitamins, but he won't eat his food with the vitamins on it. Any suggestions or ideas. Please help! Thank You!
Brian Watson

p.s. I posted this message earlier today and I can't find the post. Please excuse the multi-post.

It sounds like he is in end stages. It is probably some type of edema -water retention due to failure of internal organs like kidneys. If that is the case, there is nothing you can do. I would call the vet back and ask him to clarify what he said.

If you decide to get another turtle, research husbandry thoroughly and get a captive breed animal that is less likely to have difficulty.

I found this at Massachusetts turtle rescue site on Renal dysfuntion
Renal dysfunction: Signs include edema (water retention), pale mucous membranes, lethargy, reluctance/inability to urinate, weight increase due to fluid retention. Often seen following long term anorexia, dehydration and bacterial infection. Get veterinary help immediately. In early stages, regular warm baths and physiotherapy of back legs can help release any blockage. Always ensure that your tortoise has access to clean, fresh water.
http://www.maturtlerescue.org/common_diseases.htm#Renal

My female 3 toe showed signs of edema when I got her, but she was not as bad off as yours sounds. I have soaked for long periods of time and that helped her pass some woodchips and other things that caused impaction. I really thought I might lose her, but the swelling has come down slowly.

So sorry.