My Yellow Belly Is ill!!

Question
I think my yellow belly is ill because its eyes are looking swollen, it's lethargic, the yellow smears on its face appear to have gone much paler!  What could be wrong with the little guy?  Please answer ASAP.  PS I got it when it was a baby and i had it bout 2 month now Please hurry am worried.  I also have another yellow belly in the tank, if you know what's wrong with him (or her) could you say if its contagious/fatal etc.

Thanks a lot for your hasty reply,
PJ

Answer
Hi PJ, Swollen eyes is a very common problem with aquatic turtles. There can be a number of different causes. One of the most common causes is a lack of vitamin A in the diet. Vitamin A is found in dark green and orange vegetables. A good quality commercial turtle pellet should also contain vitamin A. Poor water quality from inadequate filtration or too low a temperature can also lead to swollen eyes. If the problem has been caused by the diet or tank environment then the other baby may also become affected. Respiratory and ear infections  can also lead to swollen eyes and  really should be treated by a vet promptly. I would quarantine this turtle in a separate container if possible. Use de-chlorinated water and keep it very  clean. Make sure his basking temperature is adequate. Raising his temperature to the upper end of the recommended range will boost both his immune system his energy and his appetite.  I've included a few links with information about the condition and a care sheet. Good luck with him.   


http://www.tortoisetrust.org/articles/eyeprobs.htm

http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/medeyes.htm

http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/Care/cs-yellowbelly.htm