Horsfield tortoise growth

Hello,

I'm new to the forum and have recently acquired a horsfield tortoise who was not very loved at his last home.

We think he's about 3-4 years old and he weighs around 100g. He's kept on a soil sand substrate, with plenty of rocks and ramps and a combined heat and uva/uvb lamp.

We are feeding him around 5 out of 7 days a week and he gets a mix of leaf salad & dandelion.

In the last few weeks, we've started to notice growth lines (??) at the based of his shell. My question to everyone is are they too wide?

I feel like we've been really controlling his food (because he'd guzzle away all day if he had his way!) And he gets a good run around most days outside of his enclosure.

So if they are too wide, I'd really appreciate any suggestions you have to change our routine

It's pretty common for a tortoise to grow rapidly when it gets better nutrition. If it wasn't taken care of properly before it's normal for the tortoise to use it for growth.

Well fed Russians often end up with wide growth lines. It's primarily an aesthetic thing. If they don't bother you, don't worry about it.

I'm no expert (just one Russian!) but if your tortoise is getting plenty of exercise, he shouldn't have a problem eating every day. Tortoises all grow at different rates but it would be nice to watch him get a little heavier!

They are pigs for sure! But okay so long as they are moving around well. Our (adult) tortoise is currently eating like there is no tomorrow. She's put on nearly 70 grams in the two weeks since coming out of hibernation.

She's outside and had similar gains last spring. She grew quite a bit when she came to us but it looks to be all healthy growth. Her appetite slowed down in the summer and fall, just as it should.

Welcome and I hope you enjoy your little one.

What a cutie! I glad you were able to rescue him.