Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My hingeback has a split cara. Right above his left foot where the front and back plates connect. It's about 1" to 1 1/2" big. There is tissue showing. What can I do to treat this? What could have caused it? Any info is gratefully appreciated

Personally I would take it into a vet if this is a recent injury. If this is an old, already healed injury then you probably don't need to worry about it if it doesn't seem to be affectings its ability to move around and eat and such.

If this just happened, watch for infection. Do you give calcium supplements? The shell may be weak from lack of calcium. Trauma may also have caused it, alone or in conjunction with lack of calcium. Do you have UVB lighting?

again, personally I would take it into a vet.

This is perfectly normal for a hingeback tortoise. Thats why they are called hingebacks. When adult they develop a hinge on the carapace between the 3rd and 4th coastal scutes. They do this so they can close the space between the carapace and plastron in the rear. Helps to deter predators. So nothing at all to worry about. Do you know what type of hingeback it is?

I was under the impression they were talking about an injury, didn't even think they may be looking at the hinge, lol.

In answer to what kind: Forest Hingeback
I only bought him 6 months ago and I just discovered the INJURY two days ago.. Its started on the other side as well. So.. I'm thinking about taking him to the vet. I don't think I can give him the care he needs alone.

It is odd that you have a symetrical injury of an inch to an inch and a half in length. At least that is what it sounds like you are describing. BTW I have a bell's hinged back. What does the tissue look like that seems to be exposed? A picture would be useful. How far away from the rear hinge is the injury? Is it affecting the use of his hinge? Do you see any obvious swelling or red irritated tissue? Is there any blood? If you have blood and or sweeling get to a vet ASAP.