red ear sliders

Question
QUESTION: I have two baby res turtles we bought while on vacation.  They are both in a 20 gal high tank with proper turtle filter complete with medium size floating dock/rock with basking lamp.  We also have a turtle type heater which keeps the average temp of water at 75 degrees where the light doesn't hit.  We've had them 10/11 weeks and until 3 or 4 days ago the one has not eaten anything.  He does swim around but mostly enjoys the basking light.  His eyes appear fine.  I can't figure out why he isn't eating?

ANSWER: Michelle,
Have you provided calcium supplement and a UVA/UVB light for them? If they don't have those that's where I would start, get that all set up and hopefully he'll start chowing down again. Turtles require higher calcium and vitamin D3 in order to properly grow and mature. Also what are you feeding the little guys? I'm not sure how much research you have done on your pets but in case you didn't know I think I should also let you know that as adults your turtles will need an aquarium that is at least 125 gallons. I hope this helps and if you can get back to me on their diet and whether or not they have calcium and UVA/UVB I can hopefully give you better advice.
JRFK

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QUESTION: I have not provided a calcium supplement and I assumed the basking light provided the uva/uvb lightening?  Their diet is the green pellet food for baby turtles with a mixture of other misc. turtle food.  Petco suggested a small feeder fish to entice the one who wasn't eating but I'm sure the other turtle ate it.  I will try the calcium supplement.  Thanks for your advice.

ANSWER: That is where I would start then, grab some calcium powder and a UVA/UVB bulb from Petco. The UVA/UVB bulbs are usually a bit more expensive than your heat bulbs. I know there are a few basking bulbs that also have UVA/UVB but read the label and make sure it says both UVA and UVB. Have you tried any fresh veggies or freeze dried shrimp? Sometimes that will also spur their appetite.
JRFK

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QUESTION: today I noticed a film over the turtles left eye or he's keeping it closed while the other eye remains open.  He hasn't moved from underneath the basking rock/light all day from what I could tell.  Is he dying?

Answer
No he is not dying, he probably has a vitamin E deficiency which can cause eye infections. Go to a health food store and get vitamin e oil or liquid gel capsules. Drop some over his eyes 3-4 times a day. His eye should start to clear up in a few days.
JRFK