Many friends have privately asked about the acid excretion of Sulcata Tortoises, such as how often they should excrete acid and what methods can be used. What foods can help with acid excretion? First, we need to understand why Sulcata Tortoises need to excrete acid, and I will briefly introduce it below.
Due to the ability of Sulcata Tortoises to store ingested water in their bodies and metabolize it into uric acid, when the water source in life is insufficient, uric acid will be recycled and used within the body. In this process, uric acid will combine with other calcium, and after a period, it will form uric acid crystals, also known as white stones.
How often should Sulcata Tortoises excrete acid?
It is normal to excrete acid about once every two days. It is normal for young tortoises to excrete acid every two days, and regular checks are recommended. If there is no acid excretion within a week, special attention is needed. If acid excretion continues to be absent, it is best to have an X-ray examination.
Acid excretion methods: More soaking. Soaking in warm water at about 35 degrees Celsius can be used. Gently stimulate the back and abdomen with a soft brush to promote acid excretion, and also gently tap the abdomen. At the same time, pay attention to the temperature and humidity of the breeding environment.
What to eat to help with acid excretion?
You can feed some dandelion, moneywort, plantain, mulberry leaves, forage, and feeds with high crude fiber, all of which can help with acid excretion.
If you have any other good methods, please add them in the comments section.
Original article by KPTer, if reproduced, please cite the source: https://www.kaipet.com/en/sulcata-tortoises-excrete-acid
