My Russian Tortoise's under shell is coming apart at the"seam" at the level of her front legs.?

Question

She doesn't seem to be in distress, was wondering if this is what happens when they grow.

Answer 1

I don't know for sure without seeing, but that's not normal. They aren't "box" turtles, the bottom should NOT have a "seam". Infection, poor nutrition, and lack of UV light causes shell problems.

I do know that turtles are slow to show "distress" and VERY slow to respond to treatment.
It's always a good idea to see a vet at the first sign of a problem so that treatment can start as soon as possible.

Good luck

Answer 2

My Russian tortoise has the same thing all over her shell and she has had it for about 2-3 months, and she's obviously not dead yet so i think that it's just how their shell grows. Some times her shell would bleed a little but now it doesn't bleed that often so i think she's fine. Another thing it could be is Metabolic Bone Disease
Metabolic Bone Disease is the most common nutritional problem among tortoises. It is caused by a lack of calcium, vitamin D, or exposure to ultraviolet light. Because a tortoise’s shell is so thick and made of so much bone, they require a large amount of calcium. Without the proper amount of vitamin D and exposure to sunlight, a tortoise’s body will be unable to process calcium. If they are not getting the amount they need, they will develop symptoms such as a softening of the shell and deformed jaws, which can lead to deformity of the shell, impaired movement, inability to eat, and muscular tremors.

To avoid Metabolic Bone Disease, make sure your Russian tortoise is fed a varied diet, provide supplemental calcium, and give him enough exposure to ultraviolet light. If you think your tortoise is suffering from this disease, take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible. You should also evaluate your husbandry to make sure you are providing your tortoise with the best care possible and to avoid the recurrence of this problem.
~Try the website below!! It should help!

Answer 3

We need more info. Size of tortoise, habitat, diet, temps.

We also need a better description of the problem. Are you talking about the 'bridge'- the part of the shell between the back (carapace) and belly (plastron)?

Coming apart- is there a gap, bleeding, cracking? Or, is there a layer of shell 'lifting off'?

Lifting scales (called 'scutes') are not a great sign- they usually show stress-, but it is a much better sign then any sort of deeper injury or damage.

Answer 4

A picture would be really helpful. It could be shedding a scute. If so..you should increase humidity. A 50/50 mix of bed a beast/playsand kept damp (not soggy) is best for RT's. Here's a great website...
http://www.russiantortoise.org/index.htm
They also have a forum that can be an absolute LIFESAVER!! Check it out =)