Shell Rot:

Shell rot is not only common in tortoises but deadly if left untreated. Like lots of the preventable conditions in pets, shell rot is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection. Shell rot can easily be avoided with the correct meaures not only when he/she is awake, but also when he/she is hibernating. 

Causes:

• A graze on the shelll

• A deep cut on the shell

• A puncture on the shell

• A bite on the shell

• A dirty living environment

• An aressive partner 

• A damp environment 

• A dry environment

 

Symptoms:

When a Tortiose has Shell rot they usually present with the following behavioural and physical symptoms.

 

Behavioural:

• General discomfort

• Rubbing up against the floor or furniture

• Trying to lick the affected area

• Trying to bite the affected area

 

Physical:

• Peeling of the shell

• Discolouration of the shell

• A high temperature

• The lifting of plates

• The loss of plates revealing bone underneath 

• Yellow or bloody discharge (it will have a bad odour)

 

Prevention:

• Keep your tortoise's living environment very clean and remove any uneaten food to stop the formation of mold or fungus.

• If your have more than one tortoise, make sure that the dominant one is not biting, scratiching or rubbing up against the other tortoises in an agressive manner.

• Talk to your vet about the correct humidity levels you must provide for your tortoise. If the enclosure is too humid/damp, the shell will soften making it easier for the infection under the shell to cultivate. If the enclosure is too dry then th shell could potentially crack leaving an open wound for infection to start. 

• Make sure that when your tortoise is outside, it will not eat or sit on anything sharp or toxic as this can lead to infection.

• Gently clean your tortiose's shell monthly to remove any allergens.

• When your tortoise is hibernating, make sure he/she is kept at the right temperature and humidity. Also make sure there is no way he/she could be in contact with mites, fleas, flies or ticks.

• If he/she had access to water, make sure it is cleaned regularly to prevent mold spores from forming on the surface. 

• Try to keep your tortoise's life stress free as to avoid any weakening of the immune system.