shakingspears

.....does the Tort actually absorb the water through its skin or shell?

Isn't the issue whether the Tort actually drinks the water, not just
soak in it? And what are the true signs of dehydration?

My tort usually urinates when soaked - doesn't this mean a net
decrease in tort hydration?

Answers please - Thanks - SS


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debbie zajchowski

Hi SS,

A tortoise does not soak water through its shell or skin, but has some
ability to absorb through the cloaca (opening in the tail).

Dehydration is prevented firstly. This is accomplish through the
provision of a water source (either soaking or water in the enclosure),
good diet, and through humid areas within the enclosure. If environment
is universally dry, dehydration usually results as tortoises in the wild
will burrow or seek areas to hide that are moist and warm.

When a tortoise drinks hydration is being provided and commonly a
tortoise will urinate daily if hydrated. Just like when we drink allot
of water, urination is always the rule! This helps flush things out and
keeps kidney working properly. A startled tortoise will also urinate
and this doesn't necessarily equate with hydration.

A dehydrated tortoise will pass thick urates, eyes may appear sunken in,
decrease in skin turgor, lack of urine output, overall sedentary
behavior, lack of appetite, sudden weight loss, etc.