Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Exactly how long can a Russian Tortoise go without eating? I've only had her for a few weeks and she doesn't really seem interested in food. I took her to the vet last Wed. and he said she wasn't dehydrated at all and seemed to be in good health except for some parasites. He had me make a few changes in her habitat and she's now on antibiotics and finally ate a little bit of lettuce yesterday, but that's it.
Any comments or answers? I'm completely new to this so any input is appreciated.

ej

If temperatures are in the 80s to 90s and it is not a chow hound, there is something wrong. I'd suggest you keep soaking it daily to keep it hydrated and have the parasites dealt with.
Ed
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Ed
Tortoise_Keepers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Trying to keep the fun in Chelonian care

Thanks for the advice. How long should I soak her? Does the water have to be a certain temp? She's already on meds. for the parasites, so at least that problem is being dealt with.

Hi,
I soak my RTs for 10 to 15 minutes in "baby" warm water about everyother day. After 15 minutes the water starts to get cold so I take them out. Remember to dry your tort off really well so she won't get shell rot. Hope this helps
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~Sarah
1.1 Mali Uromastyx (Draco and Pumpkin)
0.1 Indian Uromastyx (Cheddar)
2.0.2 Russian Tortoise (Pookie, Ludo, Clover, Kiwi)
5.1.25 Millipedes (4 different species)

For your basic, all-things Russian-tortoise course, check out
russiantortoise.org
or russiantortoise.net

Lettuce has vitually zero nutritional value. It's basically fiber and water. Dandalion Greens, Collard Greens, Kale or Chard are a better choice.