How To Plan For Your Tortoise's Upcoming Hibernation
Hibernation is a natural part of life for many tortoise species. However, this primarily applies to Mediterranean species living in countries like Greece or Italy. In the UK, due to environmental differences, hibernation is not essential – especially when tortoises are kept in controlled indoor environments like vivariums or tortoise tables with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. If hibernation is chosen, it’s crucial that it is done under the right conditions. Careful planning and preparation are essential to ensure your tortoise remains safe and healthy throughout their winter rest. At our practice, we often see the difference a well-planned hibernation makes to a tortoise’s long-term health. In this article, we’ll guide you through the key steps and explain why visiting your vet before and after hibernation is so valuable.
Why Hibernation Matters
In the wild, tortoises slow down during colder months when food is scarce, conserving their energy until spring. In captivity, many species still benefit from this cycle, but it must be carefully managed. Incorrect hibernation can lead to dehydration, organ failure, or even death. By planning ahead, you can minimise risks and help your tortoise wake up refreshed and healthy.
Pre-Hibernation Preparation
The first step is deciding whether your tortoise is fit to hibernate. Not every tortoise should undergo hibernation each year. Juveniles, underweight individuals, or those with existing health issues may be better kept awake under heat and light. This is where a pre-hibernation consultation with our exotics vet is invaluable.
During the consultation, your vet will:
- Check your tortoise’s weight and overall body condition.
- Assess their eyes, mouth, skin, and shell for any health concerns.
- Discuss your tortoise’s diet and activity over the summer.
We also recommend a pre-hibernation faecal test. This checks for internal parasites, which can become more problematic during hibernation when the immune system is naturally suppressed. Treating parasites beforehand greatly reduces risk.
Setting Up for Hibernation
Once your tortoise has been given the all-clear, you’ll need to prepare their hibernation environment.
Regarding the method: only the fridge technique should be used, or hibernation should be avoided altogether. The traditional "box within a box" method is not recommended due to its lack of temperature control and other risks.
Why the fridge method?
It allows:
- Consistent, controlled temperatures (between 4°C to 8°C)
- Flexibility in hibernation duration (typically 9–12 weeks)
- The ability to monitor oxygen levels
- Protection from external threats (e.g., rats)
- Regular checks to ensure the tortoise remains healthy (e.g., no feces or urine should be passed during hibernation)
Leading up to hibernation, your tortoise will need a period of fasting (usually 2–4 weeks, depending on size and species) while still having access to water. This allows their gut to empty fully, reducing the risk of fermentation and illness during hibernation.
Monitoring During Hibernation
Hibernation is not a case of “set and forget.” You should weigh your tortoise every couple of weeks. A small amount of weight loss is normal, but anything more than 1% of body weight per month can indicate a problem. Regular checks of temperature and condition are key to spotting issues early.
Hibernation should never exceed 12 weeks.
Post-Hibernation Care
When the time comes to wake your tortoise (usually after 8–12 weeks, depending on their health and species), you’ll need to provide warmth, hydration, and food promptly. Offer shallow baths daily for the first week to encourage drinking and rehydration.
A post-hibernation consultation with our exotics vet is highly recommended. This allows us to:
- Reassess your tortoise’s weight and hydration status.
- Check for signs of respiratory illness, eye problems, or shell changes.
- Perform a post-hibernation faecal test to ensure parasites have not become an issue.
Any health problems identified at this stage can be treated early, ensuring your tortoise recovers well and enjoys a healthy, active spring and summer.
Spreading The Cost Of Veterinary Bills
We now offer a monthly Tortoise Hibernation Plan where you can spread the cost of consultation with our exotics vet and pre and post faecal test with one monthly payment. Find out more here.
Summary
Hibernation is a natural process, but one that requires careful planning and veterinary support. By booking a pre- and post-hibernation consultation and arranging faecal tests, you can give your tortoise the best chance of a safe and successful rest period. Our experienced exotics vet is here to guide you through each step, offering tailored advice based on your tortoise’s individual needs.
If you would like to discuss your tortoise’s upcoming hibernation or arrange an appointment, please contact our team today. Together, we can ensure your tortoise enters hibernation healthy and emerges in spring ready to thrive.
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