Is Your Tortoise Ready for Hibernation?

by Dr. Sarah Rees-Fallow

As autumn approaches and the days become shorter, it's time to start thinking about hibernation. For many pet tortoises, it's a completely natural process, but getting it right is essential for their health and wellbeing.

If your tortoise has hibernated successfully in previous years and is fit and healthy, it's usually appropriate to continue. However, if they've never hibernated before, have any health concerns, or you're not confident about the process, it's safer to skip hibernation for the season. A pre-hibernation health check with your vet is always a good idea.

These days, we don't recommend letting tortoises hibernate naturally in the garden. Unexpected warm spells (which can lead to premature wakening's), freezing temperatures and even rodent attacks can all cause serious problems. Instead, a dedicated fridge is the safest option, as it allows you to keep the temperature stable between 3-6°C.

Preparation is just as important as hibernation itself. Gradually reduce your tortoise's daylight hours, heat and UV exposure over several weeks. As they become less active, they'll naturally stop eating. Food should be withdrawn during this period so the digestive system can empty completely, but regular warm baths (3-4 times a week) are essential to keep them hydrated.

Before hibernation, test your fridge for at least a couple of weeks to ensure it stays within the correct temperature range. Your tortoise should be housed in a well-ventilated box, with slightly damp coco fibre or similar bedding deep enough for them to burrow and turn around comfortably. Remember to open the fridge for around a minute, three times a week, to refresh the air.

During hibernation, check your tortoise regularly and weigh them weekly. Small amounts of weight loss are expected, but excessive weight loss or passing urine during hibernation are signs they should be woken immediately and assessed.

When it's time to wake your tortoise, allow them to warm up gradually at room temperature before giving a warm bath. Return them to their enclosure and slowly increase their heat and UV lighting over several days. Most healthy tortoises will begin eating and drinking within a week. If they do not then your tortoise should visit their vet for a check up.

If you have any questions or would like us to check your tortoise before hibernation, please get in touch. We're always happy to help make hibernation as safe and stress-free as possible.