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Why do turtles, tortoises, or frogs puff their throats? Is it normal?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Other | Unknown - Other | Female

Y do turtles or tortoises blow their throat like balloon... Even frogs do... Y??

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on March 17th, 2018

Frogs (and toads) have a vocal sac that is used to amplify their various calls (mating and letting others know of their presence). You may see turtles and tortoises "blowing their throats" since neither have a muscular diaphragm to aid in respiration. They use limb and head movement as well as muscled attached to internal organs to inflate and deflate the lungs.

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