Health
Common Tortoise Health Issues
Updated August 1, 2026
🫁 Respiratory Infection
Caused by bacteria, usually from incorrect temps/humidity or poor enclosure hygiene.
Signs
- • Runny nose or bubbles
- • Wheezing or clicking sounds
- • Gasping or open-mouth breathing
- • Lethargy
- • Not eating
Requires a reptile vet for antibiotics. Raise temps to 85-90°F while arranging the appointment.
🐛 Shell Rot
Bacterial or fungal infection of the shell, usually from a wound or dirty, damp conditions.
Signs
- • Soft or chalky spots on shell
- • Discoloration (brown, black, white)
- • Bad smell
- • Oozing or pus
- • Shell flaking or peeling
Clean the area with chlorhexidine, keep it dry, and see a vet for antibiotics if needed.
🐛 Parasites
Internal parasites are common, especially in wild-caught tortoises.
Signs
- • Diarrhea or smelly poop
- • Weight loss despite eating
- • Loss of appetite
- • Dehydration
Diagnosis requires a reptile vet to do a fecal exam. Treatment is deworming medication.
👁️ Eye Problems
Eye issues can be from injury, infection, or vitamin A deficiency.
- Swollen/closed eyes: usually infection or vitamin A deficiency
- Cloudy eyes: could be infection — see a vet
- Discharge: sign of infection
- Sunken eyes: usually dehydration — soak and offer hydration
🦷 Mouth Rot (Stomatitis)
Bacterial infection of the mouth, often from a wound or poor hygiene.
Signs
- • Yellow or white discharge in mouth
- • Swollen gums
- • Not eating
- • Bad smell
Requires a reptile vet for treatment — this can become systemic and kill the tortoise.
👨⚕️ When to see a reptile vet
See a vet immediately if:
- • Not eating for more than 2 weeks
- • Visible weight loss
- • Labored breathing
- • Diarrhea lasting more than 2 days
- • Shell soft spots or unusual discoloration
- • Any discharge from nose, eyes, or mouth
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