Tortoise health. Part 1: husbandry and husbandry-related conditions

Background: As with many non-traditional companion animals, husbandry is a crucial part of maintaining the health of captive tortoises. Husbandry deficiencies are a common factor in the development of clinical disease, and awareness of the species-specific requirements and common consequences of husbandry failings, are critical in managing these patients in practice.

Aim of the article: This article outlines basic husbandry requirements and husbandry-related conditions for the more common tortoise species that may present to first-opinion practice. Descriptions to assist in species identification are included, as these become relevant when assessing hibernation suitability of individual animals. Hibernation-related health concerns are also discussed.