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My tortoise's beak is lumpy and crooked. When should I trim it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I've got 2 tortoises from a friend. They're 12 years old and have never hibernated. Their shells are lumpy and their mouths aren't straight and I understand somebody tried to trim their beaks. I plan to feed them calcium rich food as I do with my other 2, currently hibernating. Would it be better to get their mouths trimmed now or wait until they grow a bit.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Paula Simons

Veterinarian

Published on February 8th, 2017

I would recommend having their mouths trimmed as soon as possible by a skilled exotic veterinarian. Leaving the mouth untrimmed can lead to problems eating and the misalignment can become even more severe as it grows out.

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