Tortoise Bladder Stones

Meet 'Hawaii,' a 4.5-year-old female Sulcata tortoise. She was brought to our clinic suffering from lethargy, loss of appetite, and visible straining. An X-ray revealed a significant discovery: a massive bladder stone had shifted and obstructed her cloaca, making it impossible for her to defecate.

What Causes Bladder Stones in Tortoises?

• High Oxalic Acid Intake Consuming young leaves or plants high in oxalates—such as cassava leaves, rhubarb, spinach, starfruit, wildbetal leaves, or carrots—can trigger stone formation.
• Excessive Protein Diets too high in protein are a major risk factor.
• Chronic Dehydration When a tortoise lacks adequate water, minerals and uric acid in the urine crystallize, eventually forming hard stones.
• Species Susceptibility This condition is particularly common in Sulcata tortoises, though it is frequently seen in Star tortoises as well.

Prevention & Care

Soak your tortoise in shallow, warm water every day to encourage hydration and waste elimination. Mist or spray water onto their vegetables.and Provide a high-fiber, low-protein diet.Monitor their droppings closely. If you see excessive white powder (urates), a lack of defecation, persistent straining, or hard white lumps at the tail, visit us at our Exotic Clinic (Sirindhorn-Pinklao Branch) for expert care.