Tortoise ate a rock....what should I do?

Ziltoid

Arachnosquire
Joined
Mar 30, 2011
Messages
69
I had my 2 year old redfoot in the backyard frolicking (under close watch) When he picked up a rock with his beck. I went over pick him up and tried to get it out of his grasp. he swallowed it, this was a month ago and I have yet to find it in his stool. any suggestions? should I take the little guy to the vet or not? any help or suggestions would be appreciated. :)
 

Galapoheros

ArachnoGod
Old Timer
Joined
Jul 4, 2005
Messages
8,982
It might be more normal than people think, I think it aids their digestion by with some grinding action, might be a good thing. A sulcata I had ate rocks on a regular basis, he would carefully pick them out in the backyard, pick it up and swallow it. I live on bedrock, rocks all over the place. I've seen lizards often do the same thing.
 

Ziltoid

Arachnosquire
Joined
Mar 30, 2011
Messages
69
Phew I didn't think it was that serious of an issue, reassurance is all I needed! Thank you Galapoheros!
 

Tjmphx

Arachnopeon
Joined
Aug 26, 2011
Messages
7
I have a 15lbs sulcata that lives in the backyard. An Arizona backyard seems to be the perfect for him. Hes always eating small rocks. Watch him and only get a little worried if his eating slows, with out the temps dropping. Ours will slow down after the night temps drop below 70ish.
 

aluras

Arachnobaron
Old Timer
Joined
Jun 23, 2008
Messages
435
hmm, I own two sulcatas three redfoots a cherryhead redfoot a yellow foot as well as some other turtles I have seen some of the reeves turtles eat rocks, and some of the red eared sliders,,,but I have never witnessed one of my tortoises eat a rock. they are outdoors during the summer and indoors the rest of the year. I wouldnt worry about it too much unless he/she stops eating or fails to defacate,,,then you may have an impaction problem,,I would just keep an eye on him/her and see whats up. Just my opinion.
 
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