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Two subspecies of common slider turtles are popular pets: the red-eared slider and the yellow-bellied slider. Both of these subspecies ought to have a solid and hard shell. If any part of a common slider's shell feels soft to the touch, the turtle has a serious health issue.
Bacterial Infection
Bacterial infections can cause the shell to be soft; this is known as shell rot. Shells with bacterial infections will have "some eroded, rough areas that may be soft or discolored," according to Liz Palika in The Complete Idiots' Guide to Turtles and Tortoises.
Fungal Infection
Soft shells may also be caused by a fungal infection. The symptoms are similar to shells with a bacterial infection.
Poor Nutrition
A poor diet causes metabolic bone disease (MBD), which will lead to a soft shell. The shell of turtles with MBD tends to be soft all over, rather than in spots.
Veterinary Care
Common slider turtles exhibiting soft shells must be seen by a reptile veterinarian. Only a reptile veterinarian can properly diagnose the turtle and provide the proper treatment, which may include medications.
Solving the Problem
Once the cause is known, steps need to be taken to prevent this condition. This may involve providing a cleaner habitat to prevent infections or giving the turtle a proper diet and UV light to prevent MBD.
Source:
"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Turtles and Tortoises"; Liz Palika; 1998
"Turtles and Tortoises for Dummies"; Liz Palika; 2001
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