A tortoise’s shell is probably its most distinctive feature and a very important part of its anatomy. Tortoise shells are strong, but they can still suffer damage which can lead to tortoise shell rot: potentially a very serious condition. But what is shell rot, how is it diagnosed and what can we do about it? Although it’s something all tortoise owners need to be aware of, fear not, as it can be treated and is easily prevented. What is Tortoise Shell Rot? The Herpetological Society has stated that incorrect temperature gradients are a common cause of ocular discharge in captive tortoises. Watery-eyed tortoises may induce sympathy crying in humans, so keep tissues on hand! Symptoms of watery eyes in tortoises Remember, the well-being of your tortoise is dependent on your diligence in implementing these preventive measures. Safeguard their eye health and ensure their overall happiness and vitality. Act now to ensure your beloved tortoise doesn’t miss out on a healthy life. Keep an eye on your tortoise’s surroundings, unless you’re a tortoise with watery eyes, in which case just keep blinking. Observing the tortoise’s behavior and environment Tortoises can only see some of the colours in the colour spectrum, such as yellows, reds, and greens. However, tortoises can also see in the ultraviolet light spectrum, which helps them detect their food. What Colours Do Tortoises Prefer?

It is important to observe other symptoms in your tortoise, such as nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing, to help determine the underlying cause of the watery eyes. Diet: 100% herbivore and requires a high fibre, high calcium and low protein diet. The bulk of their diet should consist of edible weeds and flowers with access to grass for grazing. Some salad greens can be offered, but only in moderation. Although the appropriate treatment will be different depending on the type of shell rot your tortoise is experiencing, as well as the severity, here is how your vet may ask you to treat them. Clean the Affected Area Tortoises are captivating creatures with diverse behaviors in different environments. Observing them and their environment is key to understanding watery eyes. Note their eating patterns, changes in appetite or behavior during feeding time, and inspect their habitat for proper humidity levels and ventilation. Eye rubbing or blinking: Tortoises with watery eyes might exhibit increased eye rubbing or blinking behavior. This could be an attempt to relieve discomfort or itchiness.Here are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to human-interaction enrichment with a tortoise: Ensure proper hygiene: Regularly clean the tortoise’s enclosure and change the bedding to maintain a clean and healthy environment. A: Certain diseases like severe respiratory infections, acute shell rot, or severe parasitic infestations can lead to sudden death if not treated in time. Enrichment increases nutritional variety. One of the main ways people enrich a tortoise is by offering a wide variety of different foods. This nutritious buffet helps replicate the tortoise’s naturally varied diet in the wild, which would include anything it could forage for itself. There could be various reasons why your tortoise’s eyes are watering. It may indicate an infection, irritation, or injury. Consult a veterinarian to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. 2. How can I prevent my tortoise’s eyes from watering?

This is a sign of an infection. A vet may clean the area and prescribe topical and/or systemic antibiotics. In severe cases, debridement or surgery might be required. Tortoises are a unique pet. They require special care and attention to be the happiest they can be. Tortoises are not like cats or dogs, who can take care of themselves for long periods of time when their owner is away from home. As mentioned above, diseases such as MBD can result in a deformed shell. But tortoises can also suffer injury to their shell that can then result in infection. It is important then to take care when lifting your tortoise because if you accidentally drop it there is a chance the shell could chip, which can lead to bleeding. Hygrometer: This device monitors humidity and helps make necessary changes or take preventive steps. Your vet may prescribe a topic antibiotic cream, such as silver sulfadiazine cream, that can be applied each day to the affected area. Separate Them

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Similar to Sulcata tortoises, insufficient calcium in the diet or inadequate UVB lighting can lead to MBD. Tortoise Trust Care Sheets for more detailed information including enclosure temperatures and humidity. A male tortoise kept with a female tortoise will harass her. Keeping mixed-pair tortoises together permanently (rather than just during a mating) is not recommended because the male tortoise will constantly try to mate with the female tortoise. This will lead to the female tortoise becoming stressed and possibly aggressive in defense.