Initial first aid treatment consisted of wound lavage with dilute povidone iodine. A second extensive wound running the length of the tail, from the tip up to the caudal aspect of the left thigh was also noted, together with a smaller wound to the caudal aspect of the right thigh ( Figure 3).įigure 1 - The extent of injuries to the tortoise's front right leg and carapace on Day 1įigure 2 - Close up of injuries to the right foreleg on Day 1įigure 3 - View of tail injury and wound to caudal aspect of right thigh on Day 2 Gnaw wounds to the cranial rim of the carapace were noted ( Figure 2). The wound was contaminated with soil and showed extensive tissue necrosis. The wound stretched from above the elbow to the level of the carpus and extended down into the elbow joint, as indicated by the presence of synovial fluid within the wound. Wound to the anterior aspect of the right foreleg Weighed 510g and was found to have a deep and extensive soft tissue This case report describes the presentation and treatment of the tortoise's injuries.Ī spur-thighed tortoise was presented in mid-February, having Such injuries are common in hibernated tortoises when no precautions are taken to keep them safe from predation. Prevention of rat incursion is an important consideration when choosing a hibernacula (shelter for hibernation) for a tortoise.Ī six-year-old, male spur-thighed tortoise (Testudo graeca) was presented in mid-February with rat bite injuries to its limbs, tail and shell. Amputation of a severely damaged limb may be required to produce a healthy surgical wound. Thorough wound debridement may be necessary under general anaesthesia. Placement of an oesophageal feeding tube will allow both fluid and nutritional support. Rewarming and fluid therapy are needed in such patients. Rat bite injuries are common in hibernated tortoises that are not protected from rat incursion.įirst aid treatment may involve wound lavage, the application of silver sulfadiazine cream and hydrocolloid dressings, antibiotic therapy and analgesia.
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