Distinguishing Turtle Dermo from Desquamation: Key Diff

Distinguishing Features Between Turtle Shell Peeling and Rotting

1. Color Differences Between Peeling and Rotting

Shell peeling in turtles typically appears semitransparent, whereas rotting skin is often dark yellow, white, or other hues.

2. Texture Differences

The texture of turtle shell peeling and rotting skin feels quite different. Peeling skin is generally harder to the touch, while rotting skin feels like mushy, decaying material when touched.

3. Area and Shape Differences

Shell peeling usually results in a complete, intact piece of skin that has clearly retained the turtle's natural skin texture. In contrast, rotting skin is often irregular and unclear in shape.

4. Connection to Decaying Skin

Upon examination, rotting skin on a turtle is often connected to decaying areas of the skin. If this is observed, it indicates that the turtle is suffering from skin rot, and immediate treatment should be sought to prevent the condition from worsening, which could lead to the turtle's death.

5. Different Functions

Shell peeling refers to the shedding of old skin to reveal new, healthy skin, which is a natural part of the turtle's growth process. Rotting skin, however, is a common disease in turtles.

6. Different Treatment Methods

During shell peeling, it is not necessary to intervene; the skin should be allowed to shed naturally. Forcefully removing the skin that is about to peel can harm the new skin. For rotting skin, if the symptoms are mild, the affected area should be disinfected, and the turtle should be allowed to dry for 30 minutes. This process should be repeated 3 to 4 times a day for several days until the affected area heals gradually.

These are the key points summarized by Oxygen Pet Doctor to distinguish between turtle shell peeling and rotting. We hope this information helps you accurately differentiate between these two phenomena and provide appropriate care for your turtle.