Urgent Care :: yellow belly slider started floating

[cindyscott01]

We bought it on vacation in florida and we have had it about 2 months now. It is still a little baby about 2inches. I think its a female. We have a 20 gal. tank with a uvb light and basking light. We recently put two minnows in the tank on friday and she ate them within 12-24 hrs. This is the first time she has eaten live fish. We did a whole water change due to moving the tank yesterday (saturday afternoon). Tonight, I notice she is having alot of trouble swimming to the bottom of the tank. She seems to be floating. I have been reading and it could possibly be a RI or gastrointestinal problem. Was wondering if the minnows could have upset her stomach and caused gas? And if so, how long do i wait to see if it corrects itself? The closest vet who will see her is about 45 min away. I do not mind taking her at all, just want to make sure it is necessary. Or could it be the water change and possible resolve?? thanks for any help!!

[cindyscott01]

She does seem to be doin better this am... She at least can submerge today... Her rear is still floating some, but she is swimming and back to interacting with me..... Or back to begging I should say.... Still would like to know the possible causes.....

[cindyscott01]

Well I guess it's a good thing I didn't rely on this blog for an URGENT response or help!! Lol but thanks anyways!!;-)

[steve]

At 2" you won't what gender it is. She might have gastrointestinal is she did consume too much, too quickly though this usually subsides pretty quickly. Unsteady floating should always be watched carefully. The turtle should be taken out of the water if ever showing signs struggling. Welcome to the site.