Why is my tortoise sneezing?
Every once-in-a-while, your turtle or tortoise may sneeze. Generally, this is nothing to worry about and may be a result of food or substrate irritating the animal’s airways. It can in fact be incredibly cute!
Are there any problems with a Russian tortoise?
It is common for newly purchased tortoises to have various parasites, herpesviruses, upper respiratory infections, and other problems. In contrast, captive-bred babies are very hardy and rarely develop problems if their husbandry is good.
How big does a Russian tortoise get in Arizona?
Ranging in size from 5 to 8 inches long and weighing about a half pound to two and a half pounds (300 to 1500 gms), they can be kept outdoors in Arizona or can often do quite well with relatively modest indoor caging. Unfortunately most of the Russian tortoises are wild-caught animals and are very stressed by the time they are brought home.
Why does my Russian tortoise have white spots on its shell?
You may notice shell rot in your tortoise if it has white powdery, pitted, or flaking patches on the shell; if left untreated, the infection may eat away the shell. External parasites include ticks, mites, and flies. If you notice any of these, you’ll need to treat immediately as they can cause disease.
Can a Russian tortoise Breathe Out of its mouth?
You may notice wheezing and sometimes a mucous discharge from the nose and/or mouth. If you wait until the tortoise is breathing out of its mouth, you’re not in for good results.
What kind of shell does a Russian tortoise have?
Russian tortoises are beautiful reptiles with all the hallmark features you’d expect from a land-roving tortoise. This includes the large domed shell, rough skin, and thick stubby legs. The carapace, which is the upper part of the shell, is usually covered in shades of olive green, tan, brown, and black.
Ranging in size from 5 to 8 inches long and weighing about a half pound to two and a half pounds (300 to 1500 gms), they can be kept outdoors in Arizona or can often do quite well with relatively modest indoor caging. Unfortunately most of the Russian tortoises are wild-caught animals and are very stressed by the time they are brought home.
It is common for newly purchased tortoises to have various parasites, herpesviruses, upper respiratory infections, and other problems. In contrast, captive-bred babies are very hardy and rarely develop problems if their husbandry is good.
What are the symptoms of an injured tortoise?
– Whistling, noisy breathing: RI , partial obstruction . Mild noises may go away after a soak or washing. Some tortoises whistle normally and most whistle when they withdraw their heads quickly. – Does not open eyes, but not swollen: UVB overexposure, injury. – Swollen eyelids: Bacterial infection.
