2006-06-19 14:03:48 · 4 answers · asked by mar_vin90 1 in Pets ➔ Reptiles
Generally, it's not a good idea to cut a tortoise's claws. If you are concerned about the length, try putting a rough rock or brick in his cage in a place he's bound to walk over. If you REALLY feel he needs to have them cut, regardless, DON'T TRY TO DO IT YOURSELF!!! You could really hurt him. Take him to a reputable exotics vet to have them cut.
Hope this helps.
2006-06-19 14:08:10 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Not if they have a good substrate- something roughish to wear the nails down. I like stone floor tiles for that job- they are also great for basking!
'House pet'? Does this mean free-roaming within the house? This can be a tough gig for the turtle- drafts, difficulty accessing water and food, droppings in the wrong place, basking sites, etc. It is fun, but you gotta take a few precautions.
How about a garden pen? Does he get outdoors? If so, some rocks or a pile of pebbles, etc. will give him some toenail control as well, as well as access to better food, sunshine, fresh air, etc.
If the nails get long enough to mess up his walking, become ingrown, start to splinter badly, etc., go ahead and trim them like most other pets- holding his leg out will take a little practice but it is possible. Sometimes, havnig him pull his head and legs in will even help you get a better angle!
2006-06-20 05:35:57 · answer #2 · answered by Madkins007 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, you do not need to cut the nails or beaks of tortoises, if you provide a flat piece of rocks for it to walk and feed on. The grinding will wear it down naturally. As well, you should have a 50/50 topsoil and sand substrate, keeps in moisture and it allows the tort to dig. If you provide flowing substarte like rabbit pellets or hay only, it does not wear down the nails.
If the nails are overgrown, but they do not impede mobility, add in a large flat piece of rock and feed on there. The nails will waer away in a few months.
If the nails are so overgrown and started to curl, you need to have them cut. You can use small dog clippers. Hold the nail to a light source and do not cut into the veins. Cut below the veins. If you cut too high it will bleed and the poor redfoot will hurt. The bleeding is a pain to stop... well, you let it stop naturally and curse at yourself.
Good luck.
2006-06-19 17:11:29 · answer #3 · answered by wu_gwei21 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm not sure but I have a box turtle and I have to take her to the vet regularly to have her nails trimmed and her beak filed down.
2006-06-19 14:26:28 · answer #4 · answered by Peace Lovin Hippy 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋