Does this growth under the front shell on top of neck look normal?

[Stoneman]

So, I rescued this tortoise about four months ago, it had practically no growth the first two years of life. Now, it has more growth lines than it had before I got it. I have it on a diet that is high calcium low phosphorus, and am giving it baths regularly. He excretes solid urates so I know that he at least has some kidney function, but I have been concerned it has had kidney issues because it does have some swelling in soft tissue torso areas. I will attach some extra pics of those. I also think that maybe it was just UVB and nutrient deficient, and his bones did not grow, and perhaps the poofiness is just extra soft tissue growth. Does anyone have input about that? what do you think? I am also thinking maybe those bumps above its neck are muscles. Can anyone let me know what those bumps are?

 

[Yvonne G]

Solid urates is a sign of dehydration. They should be smooth and creamy. I don't know what the bomps are.

 

[Stoneman]

Thank you, I will give it baths more frequently.

 

[PA2019]

So first a disclaimer.

I don’t have hatchlings, so my experience stems from my adult group.

1) The puffiness on the sides of the legs occur with my adults, especially after soaking. I’ve always thought that the thin, pliable skin in those areas would have an easier time absorbing moisture and present with edema.

2) The bumps look a bit different to me. My adults seem to have 2 long tendons running along the lateral superior length of their neck. Perhaps as hatchlings those matching tendons are shorter and thicker, lengthening and becoming thinner with age? (All hypothetical)

Your tort has a great hue to it, almost a honey color!