All tortoises carry worms. Unfortunately, if a tortoise’s natural immunity is compromised by stress, hibernation, or sickness, internal parasites like worms could adversely affect its health. You can tell if […]

Tortoises can get constipated. Tortoises that can’t poop will become lethargic and disinterested in food, appearing distressed and uncomfortable. They develop hard stools due to dehydration, diet, intestinal parasites, egg […]

If ignored or left untreated, respiratory infections can be life-threatening. Tortoises lack a diaphragm, meaning the chest and abdomen aren’t separated. The tortoise can’t cough up mucus, so it accumulates. […]

Fecal impaction is often used interchangeably with bowel obstruction (intestinal obstruction). An intestinal obstruction refers to a blockage caused by foreign objects (pebbles, substrate, hair, etc.), while impaction only refers […]

Tortoises have naturally occurring bacteria in their mouths, manifesting as mouth rot when the immune system ceases to function efficiently, commonly due to ongoing stress. An infection (usually bacteria, but […]

Tortoises can get cracked shells due to a bad fall, conflict with other animals, attacks by predators, and certain illnesses and diseases. A tortoise will need immediate treatment and ongoing […]