My Sulcata Tortoise is making a weird sound, kind of like a sneeze or cough. Is it sick, and what do I do?

Question

I have never heard my tortoise make this sound before, and it scares me. I think that it might be dehydrated, but I'm not sure.

Answer 1

You need to find a vet that cares for reptiles right away so you can find out what is going on. Look in your phone book, and if you can't find someone that way, call a local vet ask if they can help, or if they know the name of a vet who can.

I hope everything will be resolved soon.

Answer 2

Common signs of dehydration are sunken eyes, residue around the eyes, teary eyes, overly dry and flaky skin. Sulcatas often suffer from dehydration, and dehydration is also a big suspect in pyramiding.

Noisy breathing, on the other hand, is often a sign of a Respiratory Infection (RI)- reptile version of the flu. RIs can be very tricky to work with- some respond well to simple steps (boost temps, clean habitat, offer UVB lighting, good humidity control, etc.), while others need a vet's care.

Http://www.tortoisetrust.org and http://www.africantortoise.com can help as well.

Answer 3

Without seeing him it is hard to make a diagnosis. Possibly he has an upper respiratory infection. If this is the case it is imperative that he be taken to a Vet that is Reptile savvy. He will need to be put on an antibiotic. If not treated soon he could die from the infection. His respiratory system will shut down and that will be the end of him. Off to the Vet ASAP!!!!!

Answer 4

This is probably a respiratory infection. It is usually the result of being kept too cool and/or dry.
The tortoise needs a QUALIFIED reptile vet, as this condition isn't likely to go away on its own.