Hi

Our two 3 year old hermanns came out of their first hibernation on saturday 30/01/10 and havent taken any water or food. All they seem to want to do hide under there housing and bury themselfs.We feel we have the correct setup (basking lamp at 28c 32c).The other end of their tortoise table being cooler,we have been bathing them in tepid water twice a day and offering fresh weeds and some cucumber dusted with nutrobal.

Does anyone have any ideas for us to try to get them drinking and eating.

Many Thanks

Donna & Paul

Hi

Their set up and temperatures sound fine - do they seem in good health?  Are the eyes bright and beady, noses clear etc?  Have they passed any urates since coming out of hibernation?  What were the temps while they were hibernating, did they lose much weight?  One thing to try is using slightly warmer water to bathe them in, this will often help 'get them going'

atb

Arlene

Hi,

You could try adding a product called reptiboost to their bathing water for a short spell. This contains various electrolytes and Maltodextrins. These closely replicate the glucose released into a tortoises blood stream when they exit hibernation. It's believed these increased blood sugar levels restart the feeding instinct.

Nice warm temps and plenty of light will all help. 28-32 could do with being 32 as a minimum at the moment.

We are pleased to say that one of our torts is now eating and we will be monitoring the situation with regards to the other tort. We would like to thank you for all your advice.

Many Thanks

Donna & Paul

We are pleased to say that both our torts are eating and have passed urates.They are both looking healthy and bright.

donna & paul

Hi Donna and Paul,  that's great news, thanks for letting us know.

Regards Vivienne