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Why is my Russian tortoise's shell chipping and what can I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Tortoise

I just realized that my Russian tortoise‘s shell looks different. I’ve noticed spots that look like they might be chipping almost. It just looks different and was concerning me I attached pictures and I wanted to know what might be wrong, if anything is wrong, and what are some possible treatments, if needed.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on October 2nd, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Toby and including photos. If is difficult to see the lesions in the photos but can you scratch them with a fingernail? Mineral deposits by hard waters can leave residues. Erosions of the shell's keratin can expose the underlying bone, possibly due to trauma, infection or other. If lesions progress, a veterinary visit is recommended to assess. Good luck.

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