Tortoise weigh in

[jknoche]

Just curious how frequently folks are weight checking their subadult torts, and what degree of variance is cause for concern.

Melville (Eastern Hermann's male) was at about 278g last I weighed him a week or two ago, and 271 today. Eating and activity seem pretty normal. Which is to say he's currently absolutely motoring around his outside enclosure, shell well off the ground and trying to climb out every so often.

He gets soaks every day to every other day. He passed urates two days ago and pooped in his soak last night

I'm sure this is at least a little bit first tortoise paranoia but just wanted to double check.

 

[jaizei]

I focus more on the trend more than the individual weigh ins. That amount of weight loss, if you want to call it that, wouldn't concern me.

 

[The_Four_Toed_Edward]

I weigh my adult tortoise every Friday after a soak. I look more at monthly averages than the individual numbers. I would only be worried about weight fluctuations if they are accompanied by other symptoms or illness. If your tortoise seems otherwise healthy, I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[ZEROPILOT]

Too many things can change the weight. Especially level of hydration. And dense food.
I only weigh my juveniles once a month. After a soak.
Once a month the weight will be slightly up. How much will depend.
More than two weigh ins with no gain or with less weight and I may get concerned.

Look for healthy poops. Healthy appetite with interest in eating and in normal movements with the legs sturdy and the animal walking with his shell carapace off of the ground.
The tortoise should feel chunky for it's size and age. An unnaturally lightweight tortoise just feels off.
You'll get a feel for it.
Just do yourself a favor, and weigh less.
The only exception would be while treating a sick tortoise. Then closer scrutiny would be wise.
Otherwise a slight increase every month is what you want. The amount will be similar each month.