Reptile & Amphibian Forums

i recently got a greek tortoise (roughly 8 to 12 months old) who has fallen ill, clear runny nose, bubbles, things of the sort. I brought him to the vet who said hes def got an upper respitory infection and possible pneumonia. Knowing a little about tortoises from what i've read and what the vet said she said to pretty much turn up the heat, and keep trying to feed him until she gets results back from the lab. he has been eating and the bubbles are slowly going away but i can not tell if he has been drinking or not, and i'm contemplating if i should bathe him and if i should how exactly would i go about that since i know that greek tortoises require low humidity and little water, or is my info wrong?

thanx,
stressed owner

If the tort is eating, it should be fine for the moment. Should the animal stop feeding at any point or resume very severe respiratory distress (i.e. gasping for air, producing exceedingly large amounts of nasal discharge, etc.), contact the vet immediately. What kind of Greek tortoise do you have? What are you feeding it? Shoot for a high fiber, low protein diet. Feed them dandelions and seasonally available flowers (consult any caresheet on this website; good advice). The tortoise may get better with or without antibiotics; best for the vet to decide.

Bathing is essential. Bathe the tortoise at least every three days, every two should you notice dehydration (sunken eyes, loss of appetite, severe cracking dryness in the skin, etc.). Just make sure it's dry the rest of the time, as many Greeks are prone to shell rot and respiratory illnesses if kept in damp conditions. If you live in a suitable outdoor area (over 70 degrees Fahrenheit with some sun and moderate to no humidity), you can give the little fella a chance at moving about outdoors. The sun does wonders for animals in recovery.

T.G.

thanks for the help, he has been eating, and the blood work came back and there is no infection anywhere so she concluded it was most likely caused by stress. he still sneases but he finally did pee, tho it was all white and crunchy, most likely cause hes dehydrated (i bathed him today, and will do so from every two days). ive been feeding him romane, mustard greens, grass, and dandelions, and suplementing it with calicum dust twice a week (sprinkling) all things recomeneded by the vet and hopefully i will be bringing him outside soon, i'll put up some pics soon.

B.M

and i THINK hes a spur thighed, though not entirely sure...will post a pic soon