Do tortoise's need their claws cut?

[kayjay_1000]

Do i need to get my tortoise's claws cut? He is only 1 year old. Thanks for any suggestions x

[jules77]

ah bless, I envy you, I lost my tortoise a couple of years ago from mouth rot after hibernation, she had been in the family 40 years.

Anyway, back to the question, we did ask the vet to cut our tortoises claws the once as we felt they were long, I cant remember if he did or not as I was not very old, but I remember my mother saying he hadnt had a tortoise in to have its claws cut before. I would say you dont need to worry at the moment if it is only one year old, You may want to ask an expert at the tortoise trust, they were very helpful to me some years ago.

http://www.britishcheloniagroup.org.uk/

[WendyS]

I had a tortoise for over 40 years and its claws were never cut. But it roamed free-range in the gardens of the various houses we moved to where there were paved paths and patios and I think that these concreted areas tended to wear down its claws naturally and keep them trimmed. I wouldn't think they need trimming yet but get the vet to check them when he comes out of hibernation (unless he's indoors and not old enough to hibernate yet).

[kayjay_1000]

He hasn't gone into hibernation yet, we were told he should't go into hibernation untill he is about 5. Also i have been told not to let him out side untill the summer months as he is still very young and will get cold easy. Thank you both very both for your help and the website is very helpful. Take care x x