Why isn't my Russian tortoise soaking? Black runny poop, peeing a lot.
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
I have a Russian tortoise. For a whole, he was going in his water regularly to soak and do his business, but I've noticed he hasn't been using it as often. Is this bad? I let him out and he had black runny BM and urinated a ton.
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on September 20th, 2018
If he won't soak on his own, you can give him a soak once or twice a week. Use a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. Soak for at least 30 minutes. It is normal for the to defecate during the soak, if this happens, change the water. Submit the stool sample to your veterinarian to diagnose intestinal parasites. Confirm proper temps in the enclosure as low temps can affect activity, appetite and digestion in reptiles.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on December 16th, 2017
Check the temperature in his enclosure. Low temps can affect appetite and activity in reptiles. A chilled tort will not eat much, if at all. Look in and around his mouth, safely if he will allow, for signs of injury or infection. This can include redness, swelling, discharge or bleeding. See your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet if necessary. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and an unflavored electrolyte replacement beverage for 20-30 minutes. This will warm him up, provide hydration and may stimulate defecation. Be sure to cut food up small enough for him to eat.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 4th, 2017
You can soak him several times weekly in a warm 50/50 mix of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 20 minutes. This will provide hydration and may warm him if he is cold. Check Temps and humidity in his enclosure. Low Temps can affect activity in reptiles. Since he is a "new" pet, consider an exam with your veterinarian or an experienced herp vet to confirm good health or to diagnose and treat any preexisting conditions. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites. This species frequently burrows, so that aspect of his behavior is normal. You can read more about care at the link below. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Russian-Tortoise/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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