Baby Sulcata Soft Bottom shell

by Jeff
(Atlanta, Ga)

I just got a baby sulcata (about 2'') his bottom shell is soft. The top is hard and is pretty active and eating good. Is that normal?

Comments for Baby Sulcata Soft Bottom shell

Click here to add your own comments

Sep 02, 2014
 soft under shell NEW
by: Anonymous

It is comin for a 2" sulcata to have a soft shell he's a baby he has to grow and with him the shell will as well, and toughen up :)
Jan 28, 2014
 Sulcata baby cute
by: Kathy

I put a cuttle bone in the tortoises corner expecting him to knaw on it like a bird. I didn't ever c him do it though. Shavings in the water, aye? Ok deal. Thanks.
Jul 08, 2010
 Baby Sulcata Soft Bottom Shell
by: Susan

Hi, one of the ways to get extra calcium is adding either shaved cuddle bone into the water dish, or you can buy the calcium in jar, and the UVA light should be upper 80's to low 90's to keep him warm and his shell dry...UVB light to all the calcium to digest into his system. Many good greens have lots of calcium, my favorite is romaine lettuce, lots of good nutrients, and full of calcium for his shell/bones, and vit A for his eyes, and all the good B vitamins for over all health.any dark green veggies are higher in nutrients.. I hope this helps get his better...sincerely, Susan.
Jul 07, 2010
 Soft shell
by: Shelly

No, a soft shell is not normal.

Your tortoise is lacking calcium. Be sure you are following a proper diet for your tortoise. Add some powdered calcium to the diet for a while.

You must also provide plenty of UVB light (sunlight). The tortoise needs it to metabolize the calcium.

Keep it slow and steady.

Click here to add your own comments

Return to Ask Your Turtle or Tortoise Question.