Common illnesses and health problems of the domestic tortoise.

Runny Nose Syndrome or Chronic Rhinitis

Symptoms include a clear mucus from the nostrils. RNS is a bacterial infection which is part of the herpes family. RNS is a secondary infection therefore it is most important to eliminate the cause of the problem. Often incorrect housing and humidity levels, over crowding and stress can be the underlying common factor. RNS is highly infections and should be taken extremely seriously at the first sign. When a case of RNS is identified take extreme care, quarantine the effected tortoises if you have several and contact you local vet.

The visit to a veterinary surgeon will probably administer a course of antibiotics. Please note that a bout of RNS will not disappear on its own, it is a viral infection therefore will require a course of antibiotics if it is ever to clear. These will be administered through a syringe into the tortoises mouth.

Remember the following to help eliminate RNS

Ÿ    Always quarantine

Ÿ         Provide adequate housing appropriate to the species including correct temperate

Ÿ         Take special care with hygiene procedures

Ÿ         Never over crowd tortoises

Ÿ         Use suitable substrates

Ÿ         Clean your tortoise table at least weekly