My Tortoise Never Drinks Water...HELP!

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heather.annie43

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I am worried about my sulcata tortoise, I have never seen him actually drink water. We made a little pond area in our back yard, and a water dish just in case. He's an adult about 90lbs, and I have never physically seen him drink water. I have read that some dont drink unless they are in the water, so I hauled him into the pond and he hated it. He freaked out and tried to escape. I was wondering what your thoughts are about his non drinking habit. All animals need water!!! Help!!!
 

Jacqui

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Are you sure he is not getting water or soaking when your not around? Is what he is eating high in water content?
 

dmmj

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I agree it is more than likely not thirsty and adults are notorious for not liking to be forced soaked. I would assume it is drinking when you are not around, could we see some pics of it's enclosure?
 

dmarcus

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I am gonna guess that you are just never around when your tortoise chooses to drink.
 

tortoise-kid

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I was worried about the same thing, in till I realized after all these years he must be drinking something lol :)
 

reneereichert

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I have only seen mine drink once or twice, but I know they go in the water to at least soak because they dirty it up. I wouldn't worry unless you see signs of dehydration ; )
 

Weda737

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Mine would visibly drink for several weeks when I got him, he also had gritty urates too, now that he's been with me long enough, no drinking, and rarely any urates. I think it's a sign of good health and hydration.
 

Laura

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do you watchim 24 /7 he could drink when you are not looking, or get plenty of moisture fomr his food and grazing..
 

Tom

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I rarely see any of my adults drink either. The only way I know they do is because I use a five gallon pizza dough tray for a waterer and when one drinks the thing goes about half way down. Most days the water level hardly drops at all, but when one takes a drink its obvious.
 
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