Trtoise Tips The Organization for the Protection of Nevada's Resident Tortoises, Inc. A non-profit organization since 1982

Urate Salts in Urine

What is that white stuff passed by my tortoise? Chances are its just urate salts that are occasionally part of the urine. It looks like curdled milk or bits of chalk. This is a good thing. Be glad your tortoise is passing them and not forming a bladder stone that might require surgery. Just wash these deposits into the grass or around plants. They help your garden grow. It is always a good idea to encourage your tortoises to drink. It seems that some don't drink until it rains--the natural response--or you just don't see them at the water dish.