My tortoise wants to hibernate. Is it safe or should I keep him awake?

Question

I have a tortoise, and this year he really wants to hibernate (we switched to a bigger outdoor cage recently). He's sleeping a lot and not eating very much, should we encourage him to stay awake? Or do we let him hibernate? Isn't hibernation complicated?

Ady Y. Gancz, DVM, ABVP (Avian), ECZM · Accepted Answer

Hi and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach, It is normal for this species to hibernate when it gets cold. This in itself should not be a problem; however, if Creek is unwell for any reason then it is better to keep him active by providing a warm environment throughout the winter. This would ensure that his immune system continues to function properly. A yearly veterinary health check just before it gets cold could help you decide whether or not to let him hibernate.

My tortoise wants to hibernate. Is it safe or should I keep him awake?

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