White Film Over Turtles Eyes: What To Do?

In this article, we are going to talk about the white film over turtles’ eyes, why they occur, how to prevent them and what to do when it happens. So, let’s get started!

What are the causes of white film over turtle eyes?

• The main reason behind this problem is poor water quality. If the tank is too small for your turtle, then it will get dirty very quickly. As a result, the water quality will get down too. Consequently, you may observe different kinds of diseases in your turtles.
• The next common reason is not having a filter or the filter is underpowered. Turtles are generally very dirty animals. They produce waste much more than fishes. So, you’ll definitely need a powerful filter for coping up with the load of a turtle tank. I’ll advise getting a canister filter. They are awesome for turtle tanks. My favorite one is Aquatop CF500UV.
• Algae can also cause the white film issue. There are chances that the white film is some kind of algae. In such a case, you’ll need to take steps to prevent algae bloom in the tank. Generally, algae are a part of every water tank. They are necessary to establish a healthy environment inside the turtle tank. However, it becomes a problem when too many algae grow because of the imbalance of water parameters.
• Though this is not sure, another reason can be lack of a good basking place and a basking light. You need to make sure that your turtle tank has all the necessary items that a turtle needs to thrive. Basking place and basking light (UVB bulb, heat lamp) are extremely important for a turtle.

How to prevent white film over turtle eyes?

• The first thing you need to have is a properly sized tank. Turtle needs huge space to live properly. A general rule of thumb is 10 gallons of swimming space for every 1-inch length of the shell. So, if your turtle has a 5-inch long shell, then it’ll at least need a 50-gallon large tank. Generally, an adult water turtle requires about 75-100 gallon tank.
• The next thing you’ll need is a proper filter for your turtle tank. Though there are hundreds of types of filters, canister filters are the best one to choose for a turtle tank. Don’t waste your money on any other filters.
• Perform weekly water changes regularly. Change at least 30-50% of the water. It will help to bring balance in the water parameters and prevent potential algae bloom.
• Ensure there is everything in the turtle tank that a turtle needs to thrive. The most important items are basking place, UVB light, heat lamp, filter, ramp (if necessary) and plenty of swimming space.
• Don’t overfeed your turtles. If there are leftovers, pick them out. It will help to keep the tank water clean and hygienic.

The cure for white film over turtle eyes:

• The first thing you need to do is figure out the root problem. Check out the possible reasons for the white film in the earlier section and check which one is responsible. If you can’t figure out the problem, it is better to take help from an experienced keeper or vet. To contact with an experienced turtle vet, check out our Emergency Turtle Vet Directory.
• After you figure out what is causing the problem, try to eliminate it. If swimming space is the issue, get a new larger tank. If the filter is not powerful enough, buy a more powerful enough. Hopefully, the white film will go away within a few days.
• If the white film still persists, ask the help of a professional vet. Don’t try any medicine on your own. You can use some turtle eye care products such as Zoo Med Repti Turtle Eye Drops, however, ask the permission of a vet first.

So, this is my detailed guide on what to do when there is a white film over your turtle’s eyes. Though the white film will not kill your turtles, they are not good for them either. And if left untreated for a long time, they can cause serious problems. Also, a white film can be an indication of other serious problems.

So, if you see your turtle has a white film over its eyes, I’ll advise you to immediately ask the help of a professional vet. Vets can properly diagnose the cause and treat according to it.

Let me know if you have any more questions on this topic on the comment box below. I’ll try to answer as soon as I can!