Russian Tortoise: 7 Essential Facts & Care Tips for a Healthy Pet

Check environmental parameters first. Make sure the relative humidity level is correct. For Russians, it can range between 40% and 60%. Provide adequate UVB lighting. If the bulb is more than 6 months old, replace it. Provide a balanced diet including vitamin and mineral supplementation to promote shell health. Survey the enclosure and remove any sharp rocks or furniture. These can cause small scratches which can lead to infection. You can gently clean the shell using a diluted Betadine or chlorhexidine (Hibiclens) solution once or twice daily. If there is no improvement in the shell condition after 5-7 days, consider an exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles. You can review tortoise care at the links below. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Russian-Tortoise/ https://www.petcoach.co/amp/article/russian-tortoise-habitats-how-to-create

That looks like a good start but you will need to upgrade in size as Oogway grows. Here are a couple of good resources for basic care and habitats. http://www.anapsid.org/russian2.html http://m.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article.cfm?articleid=2719

I suggest you refer to these links for information on proper feeding and husbandry. ( http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Russian-Tortoise/ ) ( https://russiantortoise.net/russiantortoisediet.htm )

Check the temperature in the enclosure. Low temps can affect appetite in reptiles. He could also be a bit stressed by the change in environment. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 20-30 minutes. This will warm him up while providing hydration. Dice greens and vegetables finely to make eating easier.

It's quite difficult as their shells are very similar. The male has a long thin tail with a slit like cloaca far up the tail. Whereas the female has a short fat tail with a star shaped cloaca close to the body. If in doubt you may need to go to a reptile vet.

Hello. This is a common Red Eared Slider & there is a ton of information available online, in books & at pet stores on the proper care of these turtles. Please inform yourself the best you can to give this little guy the best chance possible to have a long life. They can make very good pets. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hatchlings do not need third mother's. They hatch and leave the nest site immediately to search for food and live their lives. Ideally, you should have the the tortoise examined by a veterinarian experienced in treating reptiles. He or she will be able to determine the species after which detailed care information can be provided. You can read about basic care here: http://www.avianandexotic.com/care-sheets/reptiles/tortise-care-sheet/