Sulcata Shell Chipping

[oumilk]

Hello,

My tort seems to have these chips in his shell that we've been treating with betadine every day and cleaning his house in case it's too damp. However, it seems to not be getting better and we are trying to find a vet but trying to know whats causing this. From other posts it could be shell rot or normal wear and tear so trying to see if any more experienced people have a better idea.

Thanks!

 

[Yvonne G]

A couple things spring to my mind. . .

Betadine inhibits the growth of new white blood cells and should not be used on a regular basis. Once is enough.

And when we see burning between the scutes like that on the new growth it's usually from a light or heat source being too close to the shell.

 

[Tom]

Hello,

My tort seems to have these chips in his shell that we've been treating with betadine every day and cleaning his house in case it's too damp. However, it seems to not be getting better and we are trying to find a vet but trying to know whats causing this. From other posts it could be shell rot or normal wear and tear so trying to see if any more experienced people have a better idea.

Thanks!

Hello and welcome.

Shell rot happens on the plastron, and its pretty non-existent in sulcatas. High humidity is good for sulcatas.

I agree with Yvonne. This look like heat damage from an overhead heat source. Basking lamps and CHEs should not be used with larger sulcatas. Is that what you've got for heat in the colder months? We can make suggestions for safer and more effective alternatives.

 

[oumilk]

We have a chicken coup heater that does hot air for winter. Is there a better alternative? I was worried about the side chipping a bit but I will stop using the heater during winter until I find a better one. Thank you!

 

[Tom]

We have a chicken coup heater that does hot air for winter. Is there a better alternative? I was worried about the side chipping a bit but I will stop using the heater during winter until I find a better one. Thank you!

There are many types of chicken heaters. What type was it?

Here are two ways to do it safely and effectively. Both of these depend on having a well sealed insulated box:

Single Tortoise Night Box

I like my larger tortoises to live outside full time. My climate permits this year round with a little help. For people who live where it snows all winter, this type of box is still good for warmer weather, getting them out earlier in Spring, and keeping them out a bit later into fall. You'll...

tortoiseforum.org

Double Door Night Box

As the years have gone by and I build more of these boxes, I learn more and more each time. This one is the latest and I incorporated everything I've learned over the years. I also tried to take lots of pics so I can explain in more detail some of what is going on. It will take multiple posts to...

tortoiseforum.org