Our male North African/Greek cross tortoise is about 18 years old.  About 18 months ago his back legs seemed to become weak, but x-rays of the legs didn't reveal any obvious problems.  After hibernation last winter the problem seemed to have lessened and he had reasonable use of his back legs.  However, in the last couple of months he's lost all use of his back legs and his front legs seem to be weak as well.  His appetite is fine and he seems happy enough, although he can't get around at all now.  Any help would be very gratefully received.

Hi
Is he passing urates OK?
Am I correct in thinking that the X-Ray was only of his legs and not the whole body? and can I also ask is your vet a tortoise specialist? I do think whatever the answers, that you need to get him back to the vet for further investigation as this is not normal, and there could be several reasons as to why this happening, but only a vet will be able to find that out. Sorry not more helpful. Please let us know what happens. In the mean time just keep him warm and well hydrated.
Jane

Hello Jane - thanks for your reply.

No, he doesn't seem to be passing urates recently.  The X-ray was legs only.  The vet has suggested that it could be - gout, arthritis, an infection or brain problem.  However, to carry out all necessary tests is going to be expensive, hence, I'm trying to see if anyone else has had this problem in order to narrow down the search. Regards - Mike.

Hi Mike
I am thinking maybe a bladder stone, but of course I don't know that, it is only a suggestion,. I think a whole body X-ray may tell you more, and it really needs to be done quite urgently.
Sorry can't help any more, please let us know how you get on
Jane

Hope he starts to improve soon