Soft-Shelled Turtle Care: A Comprehensive Guide

Soft-shelled turtles are fascinating creatures that make for intriguing pets, but they require careful and diligent care. They are highly evolved, agile swimmers and quick on land, with a unique ability to breathe underwater. Their shells are soft and susceptible to injury, so it is important to provide them with a suitable habitat, a well-balanced diet, and regular veterinary care. In this article, we will explore the specific needs of soft-shelled turtles and provide essential care guidelines to ensure their health and longevity.

Creating a habitat for a soft-shelled turtle

Tank Size and Setup:

• Soft-shelled turtles are active swimmers and require a large tank. Allow 5 to 10 gallons of water per inch of carapace (shell) length. For example, a 20-gallon tank is suitable for babies, while adults may need a 40-gallon or larger tank.
• It is best to house only one soft-shelled turtle per tank due to their aggressive nature.
• The tank should have a wide shape rather than a tall one, providing ample space for swimming and exercise.
• The water temperature should be maintained between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the air temperature in the room should be slightly warmer, between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Use a submersible aquarium heater or an under-tank heater to maintain the water temperature.
• Create a basking area with a temperature of 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, accessible by a gentle incline or ramp. Ensure the surfaces are smooth to prevent scratches on the turtle's shell.
• Install a filter to maintain water quality and prevent bacterial and fungal infections. External pumps are recommended for better filtration and easier cleaning.
• Provide a hiding area using driftwood or floating islands, and include live aquatic plants if possible.

Substrate and Decorations:

• Use a sand substrate, such as river sand or play sand, at the bottom of the tank. Ensure the sand is free of rocks or sharp objects that could injure the turtle.
• Avoid large, abrasive stone objects in the tank, as they can damage the turtle's soft shell.
• Soft-shelled turtles like to burrow, so provide enough sand to allow them to completely immerse themselves.
• If using live plants, place them around the edges of the tank to avoid being dug up by the turtle. Secure the plants with soft, smooth rocks. Java Fern or plants from the anubias family are good choices.

Water Care:

• Change one-third of the water weekly, using dechlorinated water treated with a dechlorinating agent.
• Clean the entire tank every 2 to 4 weeks, replacing the sand substrate and scrubbing the tank furnishings with a solution of bleach and water.
• Maintain water pH between 6.0 and 7.0 (slightly acidic) and ensure the water is crystal clear and well-filtered.
• Consider adding a small amount of salt to the water, as it inhibits the growth of fungus and certain bacteria.

Lighting:

• Provide UVB lighting in addition to heat lights to aid in calcium metabolism. Use bulbs that emit both UVA and UVB rays.
• Keep the lights on for 10 to 12 hours per day to mimic a natural day-night cycle.
• Place the lights close enough to the basking area to ensure the turtle receives the full benefits.

Providing clean water for a soft-shelled turtle

• Water Filtration: Use a good filtration system to keep the water clean and free from bacteria. Canister filters are a popular choice as they are easy to use and powerful.
• Water Changes: Regularly change the water to prevent the build-up of dirt and bacteria. The frequency of water changes will depend on the volume of water in the tank.
• Water Temperature: Maintain the water temperature between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use submersible tube-style heaters or heat tape attached to a thermostat to regulate the temperature.
• Water Depth: Provide enough water for your turtle to swim and exercise. The general rule is to allow 5 to 10 gallons of water per inch of the turtle's carapace length.
• Water Quality: Ensure the water pH is between 6.0 to 7.0 (slightly acidic). Most tap water falls within this range.
• Basking Area: Create a basking area with access to full-spectrum lighting. This helps with vitamin/mineral metabolism and provides an opportunity for the turtle's skin to dry completely.
• Substrate: Use a fine-grained and smooth substrate for the bottom of the tank. Avoid sharp or pointy materials that can scratch or injure the turtle's soft shell.
• Water Plants: If using water plants, secure them well to prevent the turtle from pulling them down.
• Tank Size: Provide a large tank that can accommodate the turtle's full-grown size. A wider tank is preferable to a taller one.
• Water Circulation: Consider using an aerator to stir up the water and prevent stagnation.
• Water Sources: If using tap water, let it sit for a while to allow any chlorine to dissipate. Alternatively, use well water or filtered water.

Remember that soft-shelled turtles are susceptible to shell and skin infections, so maintaining clean and optimal water conditions is crucial for their health.

Maintaining the health of your soft-shelled turtle

Habitat and Tank Setup:

• Provide a spacious tank: Soft-shelled turtles need ample space to swim and explore. The recommended size is 5 to 10 gallons of water per inch of carapace length. Consider the potential adult size of your turtle and choose a tank accordingly.
• Use a sand substrate: A layer of river sand at the bottom of the tank is essential. Ensure it is free of rocks or sharp objects that could injure your turtle's shell. Sand allows them to bury themselves, mimicking their natural behaviour.
• Create a basking area: Set up a basking spot with a gentle incline, using natural or artificial structures. This area should be easily accessible and provide a platform for your turtle to lie completely out of the water to dry off.
• Maintain water quality: Change a third of the water weekly and clean the entire tank every 2 to 4 weeks. Use a dechlorinating agent when adding new water. Invest in proper filtration to prevent infections.
• Temperature control: Maintain air temperatures between 75 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and water temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The basking area should be between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Lighting: Provide access to direct sunlight for 2 to 4 hours daily. Additionally, use UVB lighting to aid in calcium metabolism and general health.

Diet and Nutrition:

• Live bait and commercial food: Feed your turtle live bait such as small fish (avoid catfish or carp), insects, worms, and commercial reptile food. Sprinkle calcium supplement on their food, and provide a multivitamin if they don't have a turtle-specific diet.
• Vitamin requirements: Ensure your turtle receives adequate vitamin A and D3. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to swollen-eye syndrome, and vitamin D3 is crucial for calcium absorption and shell health.
• Avoid overfeeding: Soft-shelled turtles can die from overfeeding. Monitor their diet and adjust portions as needed.

Health Monitoring and Veterinary Care:

• Beak trimming: Regularly trim your turtle's beak, as it can overgrow. Consult a veterinarian for guidance on the frequency and technique.
• Signs of illness: Watch for symptoms such as infected lacerations, shell discolouration, respiratory issues, and unresponsiveness. Consult a veterinarian if you notice any of these issues.
• Regular veterinary check-ups: Schedule annual check-ups with an exotic pet veterinarian. Fecal exams are recommended to check for parasites that can impact your turtle's overall health.

Feeding your soft-shelled turtle

One of the most important aspects of keeping a healthy soft-shelled turtle is providing a balanced and nutritious diet. These turtles are active hunters and have unique dietary requirements, so it is essential to understand their specific needs. Soft-shelled turtles are typically carnivorous, and their diet should reflect this. In the wild, they feed on a variety of prey items, including insects, crustaceans, fish, and worms. It is important to replicate this diverse diet in captivity to ensure they receive the necessary nutrients.

The foundation of a captive soft-shelled turtle's diet should be high-quality commercial turtle pellets. These pellets are designed to provide the essential nutrients that turtles need and can be easily purchased from pet stores or specialty retailers. It is important to select a pellet size appropriate for your turtle's mouth, as larger pellets may be difficult for them to consume. Soak the pellets in water for a few minutes before feeding to make them softer and easier for your turtle to eat.

In addition to commercial food, soft-shelled turtles should be offered a variety of fresh whole foods. Lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and beef can be given, as well as fish such as salmon, trout, and whitefish. It is important to ensure that all meat and fish are free of bones, as these can cause choking or internal injuries. Crustaceans like shrimp and crayfish can also be offered, as well as earthworms and mealworms. These protein sources provide essential amino acids and help keep your turtle healthy and active.

Supplementing your turtle's diet with vegetables and fruits is also beneficial, as they provide additional nutrients and fiber. Dark, leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and collard greens are excellent sources of calcium and other vitamins. Other vegetables like zucchini, squash, and carrots can also be offered, either raw or lightly steamed. For an extra treat, offer soft-shelled turtles fruits such as berries, melon, and apples, which provide natural sugars and antioxidants.

It is important to remember that variety is key when feeding your soft-shelled turtle. Offering a diverse range of foods ensures that your turtle receives a well-rounded diet and can prevent nutritional deficiencies. It is also crucial to monitor their weight and overall health, adjusting their food portions accordingly. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health issues, so it is generally recommended to feed adult turtles every other day, and only as much as they can consume in a few minutes.

Lastly, always provide clean, fresh water for your soft-shelled turtle, as they may also feed on aquatic plants and algae in their enclosure. Maintaining a healthy diet for your turtle will ensure they live a long and happy life in your care.

Common health and behaviour problems

Soft-shelled turtles are susceptible to a variety of health and behavioural problems. Here are some common issues to look out for:

Aggression

Soft-shelled turtles can be very aggressive, and this can be a problem when kept in a community tank with other turtles. They can intimidate their tankmates and monopolize food and resources. Their aggressive behaviour may also pose a hazard to their keepers, especially as they get bigger. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider the housing arrangement and provide a safe distance from their powerful jaws and sharp claws.

Shell Problems

Baby soft-shelled turtles, especially the Florida species, are prone to shell problems. These issues can be mitigated by providing access to natural sunlight or artificial full-spectrum lighting. The UV rays help to dry out any fungal or bacterial infections and promote healing.

Skin and Shell Infections

The leathery skin of a soft-shelled turtle's shell is living tissue that is vulnerable to injury and infection. To prevent this, it is crucial to provide a sand substrate in their tank, as burrowing and scooting help exfoliate the shell, removing bacteria and fungi. Without this, they become susceptible to infections that can become systemic and life-threatening.

Bacterial and Fungal Infections

Soft-shelled turtles are susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections, which can be challenging to treat once they take hold. Tea tree oil, Bactine spray, and antibiotic ointments can be used to treat mild to moderate infections. For more severe cases, a trip to the veterinarian is necessary for appropriate medication.

Metabolic Bone Disease

Improper dietary nutrient levels can lead to metabolic bone disease, causing the shell to cup or curl up along its edges. Ensuring adequate vitamin D3 levels and a balanced diet can help prevent this issue.

Swollen-Eye Syndrome

Vitamin A deficiency can lead to "swollen-eye syndrome," where the eyes bug out and eventually swell shut. Providing a diverse and nutritious diet can help prevent this condition.

Overfeeding and Obesity

Overfeeding soft-shelled turtles can lead to health issues such as obesity, heart and circulatory defects, and chemical imbalances. It is important to monitor their diet and provide appropriate portions to avoid these problems.

Frequently asked questions