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Q I already own a tortoise but would like another. How easy is it to intoduce a new tortoise to an existing one?
A There are simple steps to follow. Always provide a quarantine period of a least 3-6 months. This will give you the opportunity to make responsible health checks and to ensure that both tortoises are in good health and not going to pass on parasites or infections such as worms, eye infections, runny nose syndrome etc. Also never introduce a different species of tortoise. Each species is different in its diet, environment, reproductive habits etc. and should therefore never be mixed. Tortoises also hold different pathogens which one tortoise may not be able to fight off which may result in death. If you are unsure about the species that you have please seek advice before buying your second tortoise.
Q My tortoise has undigested food in its faeces what could this mean?
A This could be flagellate organisms.
- Symptoms include diarrhoea, passage of undigested food, dehydration and anorexia.
- Although your tortoise may still be eating, the undigested food is in effect starving the tortoise.
- The tortoise should have vetnary attention and a fresh faeces sample should be checked under a microscope for organisms such as Trchomanas variety.
- Your vet will decide which treatment is best for your tortoise and possibly antibiotics for a dose of about 4 days is usually necessary.
- If your tortoise does have these symptoms always seek medical advice.
Q I have bought a Spur Thighed tortoise; can I put it in with my Hermanns tortoise?
A You must be sure that you have the same species of tortoise living together for a number of reasons such as:
- Tortoises from different regions carry many micro organisms that tortoises from other parts of the world may not be able to fight off.
- Most diets are different from one species to another due to the vast areas of population.
- Each tortoise has its own biological process eg some species are hibernating tortoises and other are not.
- The mating ritual of each tortoise can be very diverse.
The above gives you just a small sample of reasons why you must not mix species. It is vital that you quarantine any new tortoises for at least 6 months before allowing contact. This gives the responsible keeper time to monitor the health of both tortoises and to eliminate worms and other possible infectious disease. A good piece of advice is to NEVER MIX different species. If you are unsure seek professional advice.
Q Is it ok to feed my tortoise on his favourite jam sandwiches and cheese?
