Urgent Care :: RES possibly sick? HELP PLEASE!

[messyjess05]

I'm new to the site and I'm sad to say that my first post is about a sick RES. I bought the two red ear sliders about four months ago during the summer and they both seemed to be perfectly fine. They would swim around and eat regularly and sunbathe. But now, one seems to not be doing too good. He's currently about two inches long, he's in a filtered, temperature regulated 10 gallon tank with a heat lamp, UVB lamp, and a basking rock.

I've noticed that he has become very lethargic recently. He will stay right on the basking rock asleep at all times of the day and night, never moving from it to get in the water. He'll shift positions on the rock but that's about it. I feed him Green lettuce daily to graze on, 2 ReptoMin pellets daily as well, and sometimes I'll throw in some shrimp or a cricket. Recently he has been refusing to eat. He hasn't eaten in about a good two weeks and it's starting to worry me. His eyes check out fine, no swelling or puffiness when they're open (he's usually asleep), but when they're closed they're kind of grayish. I've also noticed that his color as a whole has changed from a vibrant green color to a lighter dull green.

I'm very worried about the little guy and I want to do anything in my power to save him. If anyone knows of anything I could do, or what might be wrong with him, please help!!!!!

[steve]

It's normal for them to become darker and browner as they get older. Is he separated from the other turtle? Are they both the same size? How long has he been like this?

[messyjess05]

I don't think this is because of age :/ and no he is not separated from the other turtle. He's slightly bigger than the other turtle as well. He's been like this for a few weeks now.

[steve]

I'd separate them as a precaution. It's also not unusual for some of them to slow down during the winter season. Does he still respond to treats?

[Tsikein]

If u put him in the water can he swim straight? did u noticed any bubles coming from his mouth in the water? what is the water temp?

[messyjess05]

I've separated them now. He won't respond to any food, not even treats. He swims fine like he always has. Yesterday he actually got off the rock and swam around, but he still won't respond to treats.

[messyjess05]

Also the water is about 80 degrees. It fluctuates between 78 and 80 degrees

[steve]

What have you tried as treats? Any live foods?

[messyjess05]

I haven't tried any worms. I've been looking everywhere for them, do you know anywhere I can get them this time of year?

[steve]

Try to dig them up. Bait shops should have some too. It might be easier to try feeder fish first. They'll squirm a lot when you hold them by the tail but that will get your turtles attention.