Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hey gang,
I have not posted in awhile but I still hang out and read the board.
I have a question that I hope someone here can help me with. I was at a friends house tonight and the owner was not there. I saw that she had a baby Tort and I am not sure what kind but I think there may be a big issue.

I check it out and it's claws look horrible, even though it is only about 3 inches long, it's claws are twisted and curled up on both the front and back. Also it's beak it kinda strange looking and over grown as well.

I didnt see any Rep cal or vitimins around and would almost bet that they are not using them.

Has anyone heard of this?
The Shell didnt seem to be soft though so that is good.
Can the Claws be corrected with Calcium or could this just be a deformed tort?
I know this post is not providing enough information or pics but I do plan to call them tomorrow and just "chit chat" about this a little. I would also like to give them some sound advice if it can be corrected or not.

I look forward to your reply's ( EJ Where are you !!)

It is quite possible that it is a box turtle. They (and sometimes other small torts) need nail and beak trimming on occasion. As per nutrition, shell hardness is a poor indication as only very far gone animals will actually have a soft shell.

The overgrown beak and nails can be trimmed but there is something else going on that this should occur in the first place.

The previous suggestion, of finding out exactly what kind of animal it is, is a good one.
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Ed
Tortoise_Keepers-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Trying to keep the fun in Chelonian care