Before you get a tortoise you want to be sure that as a pet it’s the right fit for you and your family. This means to ensure keeping the reptile won’t cause any harm to you or to the animal itself. Some pets aren’t compatible with certain people as allergies can arise. Which brings us to the question of this post.
Can you be allergic to a tortoise? Tortoises and reptiles in general aren’t allergenic animals therefore being allergic to a tortoise would be extremely rare. Instead, many people find that allergy-like symptoms can be caused by things in a tortoise’s living environment such as substrate, mold, or certain foods and weeds.
In this article, I’ll discuss things in a tortoise’s habitat that can cause allergies, how to avoid them, and some other things so be sure to continue reading!
Can I Keep a Tortoise If I Have Allergies?
The good news is that it’s extremely rare to have an allergenic reaction to a tortoise itself. Many dog and cat owners often have to give away their pets as the allergies are caused by the animal itself.
A lot of allergenic reactions are caused by hair follicles falling off, irritating the skin and eyes of the person with allergies. However, tortoises don’t have any hair so this reduces the chances of becoming allergic.
Not to say that it’s impossible, but it’s very rare for a tortoise to cause or trigger any current allergies. Instead, certain things within a tortoise’s environment can cause allergies to act up. We’ll cover certain factors in the next section.
Areas in A Tortoise’s Enclosure That Can Cause Allergy Symptoms
It’s important to understand what things in your tortoise’s habitat can cause allergy symptoms so you can discover the cause. Certain things that can cause an allergic reaction include:
- Substrate
- Foods/Weeds (plantain, mulberry)
- Mold
How to Avoid Irritation from a Tortoise’s Enclosure?
Here are a few tips on how to avoid getting an allergic reaction from a tortoise enclosure:
- Wear gloves when cleaning the enclosure or handling the tortoise. This will create a barrier between your skin and the allergen.
- If possible, set up the enclosure in an area that gets plenty of ventilation. This will help to reduce the concentration of allergens in the air.
- Be sure to wash your hands after coming into contact with the tortoise or its enclosure.
- Take allergy medication before handling the tortoise or entering its enclosure.
- Consider keeping the tortoise outside in a large, outdoor pen. This will help to reduce your exposure time and prevent allergic reactions.
- If you have an indoor tortoise, consider buying a humidifier for your home.
Can Tortoises Have Allergies?
Tortoises are often thought of as low-maintenance pets, but they can still suffer from allergies in a few rare cases. One common allergen for tortoises is orchardgrass. If a tortoise comes into contact with orchardgrass, it may experience symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, and difficulty breathing.
If you think your tortoise may be experiencing an allergic reaction, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.
Are Tortoises Safe Pets for Babies?
Tortoises are not safe pets for babies or toddlers. Children do not understand how dangerous these animals can be (and often put their fingers in their mouths while playing with a pet tortoise), and they are also at risk of getting salmonella poisoning if they gum a tortoise’s shell.
Can You Get Sick from A Tortoise?
Yes, you can get sick from a tortoise. Tortoises can carry Salmonella, which is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning in humans. Symptoms of Salmonella include diarrhea, vomiting, and fever. If you have any of these symptoms after handling a tortoise or eating turtle meat, you should see a doctor immediately.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to know about your allergies in order to avoid trouble. If you have any sort of reaction after handling a tortoise, it’s best to consult with a doctor. Allergies to tortoises are extremely rare, but they are possible.
After reading this post, you’re now better equipped to handle the condition and how to avoid any allergic reactions. With knowledge comes peace of mind, and that’s something you should definitely aim for.
If you think you may be allergic to a tortoise, the best course of action is to seek medical attention.
