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I've had my red eared slider for five years. Her skin started shedding (what seemed like more than average) about a week ago. I've been dry docking her for a few days and the shedding seems to be almost done. My concern is some white scratches (?) that are on her shell. I noticed them a week ago when she was out of the water. Looking back on pictures of her from a month ago, I saw that they were there. In the photo, she was under water and the scratches appeared translucent-ish? Definitely not very noticeable. The scratches haven't seemed to change in size. I don't know what they are. Help please?

It looks like some scratches to me. Has she ever been injured before? Anything abrasive in the tank? I'd also remove the gravel and keep the bottom bare or use sand.

steve wrote:It looks like some scratches to me. Has she ever been injured before? Anything abrasive in the tank? I'd also remove the gravel and keep the bottom bare or use sand.

No, she's never had any problems with her shell. I don't think there's anything rough in the tank. I'd take her out in the backyard during the summer, so maybe it happened when she was outside? Should I be worried about them? I'll take the gravel out.

I don't think it's anything to worry about now but I would keep the water extra clean and keep a very close eye on that area for any changes. Hopefully a shed or two will clear it up.

steve wrote:I don't think it's anything to worry about now but I would keep the water extra clean and keep a very close eye on that area for any changes. Hopefully a shed or two will clear it up.

Okay, so I don't need to put anything on them?

No, if anything give the area a gentle scrub (with a new toothbrush) so you have a clear/clean reference point.

steve wrote:No, if anything give the area a gentle scrub (with a new toothbrush) so you have a clear/clean reference point.

Okay, thank you so much!