Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have some questions regarding my tortoises. I have been keeping them for countless years. I was wondering if I should be worming my torts and if so with what and how often?
I am also being told that certain species of torts can carry pathogens that are normal to them but can kill other species. How would I pervent this? I have had all my torts for at least 2 years and have not had a problem but I don't know if i've just been lucky or not.
And my finally question is regarding my cherry heads. They are very good weight they drink when I soak them but I very really see them eat. Most days I put the greens in there and the seem to go uneaten. They hardly ever move. But they have been like this as long as I've had them which is almost 2 years. I have asked the people I got them from several times about this and they tell me not to worry cause I keep track of all my torts weighs and they don't loss weight.

thanks
Erin

1.1.1 red foots
1.1 cherry heads
0.0.3 egyptian torts
0.0.2 leopard torts
0.1.4 sulcata torts
0.0.1 greek tort

It is good practice to deworm every 6 months if your tort's are outdoors, less often if they get outside on occasion, and probably not necessary at all if always indoors. Contact your veterinarian for drugs and dosages.

As far as your lethargic red footed tortoises, this is abnormal. Tortoises in general are grazers and move about during the day. Obviously whatever the cause isn't an emergency since it's been going on 2 plus years, but it should be addressed. I would begin with reassessing husbandry (esp. since both are showing similar signs), and diet, as a happy tortoise generally eats vigorously without concern about who's watching (in captivity anyways). I don't keep red foots, which are quite different than the desert species I do keep therefore I can't help you with husbandry specifics. Temp and humidity are very important factors that may relate to your problem however.

If no signs of improvement then plan a trip to the vet for some an exam and probable blood workup.

Good luck,