Background: Hibernation is encouraged for healthy Mediterranean and Horsfield’s tortoises. A controlled hibernation is essential to reduce posthibernation complications or deaths. Suboptimal husbandry before hibernation and incorrect hibernation techniques may increase the risk of posthibernation complications.Aim of the article: This article provides a guide to hibernating Mediterranean and Horsfield’s tortoises, covering the prehibernation, hibernation and posthibernation periods, and also outlines how to address any complications.

Tortoises have gained in popularity as pets, and are now seen frequently in general practice. Knowledge of correct nutrition and husbandry for these animals is essential. The first in this nutrition series will describe the basic dietary requirements for the common terrestrial chelonia seen in practice.