Shell Rot?

Status
Not open for further replies.

gordongordon

New Member
5 Year Member
Joined
Oct 10, 2010
Messages
2
My young redfoot's scutes are a little pronounced. I wonder if it might be a type of shell rot? His bedding is hardly moist. The vet I went to told me to use shredded paper, personally I think it's wrong but she's supposedly a specialist. I plan on calling the vet to hear her opinion on the scutes, but if you guys could share yours that would be great. If you haven't noticed already I'm a new owner and don't really know what I'm doing.
 

LindaF

Member
5 Year Member
Joined
Sep 21, 2010
Messages
473
Don't use paper. It won't hold the humidity redfoots need. It sounds like you have pyramiding. We really need to see pictures to help you. Shell rot usually looks like white spots mostly on the plastron or bottom of the shell.
 

Mandolynn

New Member
5 Year Member
Joined
Sep 12, 2010
Messages
14
Find a different Vet! And I agree, it sounds like pyramiding. Also, make sure you are providing the correct environment and diet specific for these guys. They require much different care than most other species.
 

Madkins007

Well-Known Member
Moderator
10 Year Member!
Joined
Feb 15, 2008
Messages
5,393
Location (City and/or State)
Nebraska
Shredded paper is commonly recommended by vets, etc. as a cheap, disposable, clean substrate- especially for nursing situations. It is a drying substrate, so if you use it, you will need another humidification option.

Shell rot is erosion or loosening of the scutes, often starting on the plastron. If by 'pronounced', you mean the scutes on the carapace are developing a conical shape or little individual bumps, then you have a form of metabolic bone disease commonly referred to as 'pyramiding'. To combat pyramiding, you need to make sure the temps, humidity, diet, etc. are all OK.

The Tortoise Library (http://www.tortoiselibrary.com ) has several articles and links that may help.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.

New Posts

Top