Why is there white stuff in my tortoise's urine? Is it normal?

Thanks for reaching out about Shelley. Including a photo might help determine the nature of the cracks. The scutes typically have growth rings but these are symmetric around the scutes. They can vary on their width dependent on growth spurts. As for the white substance in the urine. Reptiles excrete kidney waste in two forms: clear urine and white, thick urates. The urates are a method to conserve water in the body. Large amounts of urates can be an indication of dehydration. Another possibility of white in the urine is calcium deposits. Excess calcium in the diet is excreted in the urine. This increased concentration of calcium in the urine, can be a precursor to a bladder stone. Different species (not identified by you) of tortoises are more prone to calcium stones. Research proper husbandry and nutrition for your tortoise to ensure long term health. A veterinary visit is recommended, at least annually, just as if for humans, dogs and cats. Good luck.

Urine should be clear, however it can be discolored by food. Dandelions can color the urine pink temporarily. Other foods with red coloring can also cause pink urine. If he is behaving normally otherwise, monitor him at home. If you see lethargy, loss of appetite or an increase in thirst or urination, then have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.

It may have been urates as they can vary in consistency and color based on the diet. Monitor Tiny Tim for lethargy, decreased appetite or any change in droppings. If it persists or worsens, you should have him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles.

The increased in urination and sort stool ay be due to an increase in fluid intake or eating succulent fruits and vegetables. The soft stool can also be due to intestinal parasites. Bladder stones are also possible and would cause straining to urinate which could in turn cause a prolapse of the penis. An exam with your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating reptiles would be recommended. Bloodwork and xrays may provide a different. If indicated, your vet can provide supportive care (fluids, antibiotics, deworming, etc) if indicated. In the meantime, keep him warm. Consider increasing ambient temperature in his enclosure by several degrees. Soak him daily in a warm 50/50 solution of water and an unflavored electrolyte replacement fluid. Decrease the amount fruit being fed. Make sure he continues to eat though.

Thanks for reaching out about Chin and including photos. Are you concerned about the white material in the urine (as the photos are unclear)? Sometimes this is due to calcium excess in the diet, meaning too many green vegetables. A veterinary visit is recommended to help assess the condition. Good luck.

The pellets appear normal. Rabbits have 2 types of stool. The ones pictured and cecotropes, or night stool which they ingest to absorb additional nutrients. The white substance is likely dried calcium from the urine. Rabbits excrete excess calcium in the urine, frequently giving it a white or cloudy appearance. This is normal and no cause for concern.

This is a quite concerning sign and could be compatible with an inflammation infection of the gastrointestinal system and surrounding organs (like pancreas and liver). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is immediately essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics and possibly further investigations (like abdominal imaging as ultrasound or radiographs) may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.