Marginated tortoise- breathing heavily

[Ali]

This has been going on for a while. I plan to give her a bath later to see if we can free something up. If this doesn't work, any ideas as to what might be wrong? I was looking around a found respiratory infections but she doesn't have symptoms such as wet or running nose.

She seems normal otherwise.

Thank you,

Ali

Edit... it seems almost more like a pitch-less whistle

 

[Kiwi & Co.]

bump

 

[riddick07]

So I know jack shizz about tortoises but maybe try to troubleshoot a little here.

How long have you had her? How long ago did it start? How old is she & did it start when she got a decent size on her? Does she have shell deformities that could cause breathing issues? Eating fine? Does it happen all the time or is she doing something specific when you hear it?

What is setup like? Temps & humidity plus What do you use to measure those things? (Not that I know whats correct humidity or temps for these guys but maybe someone else might spot something)

 

[Ali]

How long have you had her

Before she came out of hibernation. We took her on as the previous owners went into care homes. Around March time.

How long ago did it start?

I first noticed when I got really close maybe 6 weeks ago. I hadn't noticed it before. (Woah, that makes me sound terrible)

How old is she & did it start when she got a decent size on her?

I can't remember exactly, let me check. She is quite old though. Adult size.

Does she have shell deformities that could cause breathing issues?

Nope, she is in perfect physical health

Eating fine

Yup.

Does it happen all the time or is she doing something specific when you hear it?

It only seems to be when she stops moving

What is setup like?

The garden. She has been outdoors all her life (since being old enough)

 

[Benyajawo]

Hey! Has your buddy got better?

 

[Jewenyann]

A bath is an excellent start to help with hydration and possible blockages.

 

[Xoetix]

Hey! Has your buddy got better?

A bath is an excellent start to help with hydration and possible blockages.

This thread is from 2020, and the OP hasn’t been on since January it looks like

 

[Shezbug]

@Ali

 

[Jewenyann]

A bath is an excellent start to help with hydration and possible blockages.

If it persists, consulting a vet who specializes in reptiles might be a good idea. They can provide a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Also, here you can find some additional info on reptile health tortoiseowner.com. Wishing your tortoise a speedy recovery!

 

[Pixiebeak]

Ok , so it's old thread..
But if I remember correctly, a fungal infection of some type is likely.