soft shell

by Bobbie
(Queen Creek,Az,USA)

11 months ago we got 2 baby sulcata tortoises. Both from the same mom, born on the same day. One is twice the size of the other one. The smaller one has developed a soft shell the last few weeks. He is still eating and moving normally. Is this something to worry about? If so, is there something we can do without going to a vet? While I'm asking--what should they be eating, how much and how often? How often should they go outside? We do have a heat lamp in their enclosure that's on about 12 hours a day. I just want to make sure we are doing everything right.

Comments for soft shell

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Nov 25, 2009

soft sulcata shell
by: Shelly

The soft shell is a problem. It is often a sign of Metabolic bone disease. The causes are diet, temperature, and lack of vitamin D3.

Diet:

Sulcatas graze and need alfalfa hay, grass, weeds, etc.

Cuttlebone will help with calcium. You also need daily vitamins and minerals: Calcium/phosphorus two to one.

Lighting:

If your tortoise is not outdoors, you need a uvb light. Without that the animal cannot metabolize the calcium. I would say that's one of your major problems. Don't let his go too long without seeing a vet. If a few days doesn't make a positive change, do take the wee one to a vet to be checked.

Keep it slow and steady.

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