hi, im a worried owner of a 4 year old hermanns, she has a thick lower beak/jaw that stops her mouth from closing and therefore causes an overgrowth, she has to have a general anaesthetic about every 2 months, im worried this is damaging to her, can i file the beak/jaw myself???

thanks

claire

Hi Claire,

I would suggest you consult your vet the next time he treats your tortoise and ask he/she show you exactly what to do until you are confident you can do the work yourself. Most vets are pretty good and like to see keepers to take an interest in the ongoing welfare of their tortoises.

Do you offer cuttlefish at all please?
Although it isn't as easily digested as limestone flour, it does give the opportunity for your tortoise to take on extra calcium when he/she sees fit. It will also help keep the beak trim. Feeding on a hard platform (eg slate) will also assist with this.

HTH
Darren

hi thanks, yes i offer cuttlefish but she isnt interested, i also feed on a piece of slate, it doesnt make much difference to be honest, and she cannot bite food, i have to serve it in tiny pieces, she also cannot get hold of plants to tear them as the jaw doesnt close, its very frustrating!

Thanks for your advice, will speak to my vet.

claire