Even tortoises recently purchased may have very large parasite burdens. It is essential in such cases that a thorough faecal examination be carried out to determine the nature and severity of the problem. Even isolated animals that have been maintained in captivity for years can acquire high concentrations of such parasites, though constant contamination of their habitat via faecal material, and subsequent ingestion of worm ova.

Tortoises are particularly prone to two types of worm, long, greyish-looking creatures called ASCARIDS and a smaller, very thin whitish type called OXYURIDS. Both respond to treatment with a Fenbendazole-type wormer called 'PANACUR', administered orally. Another really excellent (Oxfendazole-based) tortoise wormer is called 'SYSTAMEX' or 'SYNATHIC' (Syntex Ltd). Both 'Panacur' and 'Synathic' should be administered in the form of a liquid suspension, or 'drench', at a dose rate of 3 ml of 2.5% liquid per Kg body weight. This would be an enormous dose for a mammal, but is perfectly correct for tortoises. ON NO ACCOUNT ADMINISTER ORDINARY CAT OR DOG WORMING POWDERS OR TABLETS TO TORTOISES. These may include chemicals which are toxic to reptiles.

The charts below list the recommended dosages for the weight of your tortoise. The dosages of fenbendazole do vary between 50 to 100mg per kg. Also see below our 'Panacur Dosage Calculator' for worming your tortoise.

   Panacur Dosage Calculator

PLEASE NOTE: Do not give Panacur (Fenbendazole) to your tortoise if it is dehydrated or not drinking.

(Dosages based on Panacur Liquid 2.5% for younger tortoises)

Panacur Liquid 2.5% - Each ml contains 25mg fenbendazole.

(Dosages based on Panacur Liquid 10% for larger tortoises)

Panacur Liquid 10%  - Each ml contains 100mg fenbendazole.

How to administer Panacur to your tortoise:

1. You will need a 1ml syringe and a set of digital scales that measure in 1g increments.

2. Prepare some 'forbidden food' that you know your tortoise will not refuse when hand fed (like a piece of strawberry or cucumber).

3. Check what strength Panacur (Fenbendazole) you have and weigh your tortoise as accurate as possible.

4. Use the above charts to work out the dosage required for your tortoise.

5. Using your syringe, withdraw the Panacur directly from the bottle / container.

6. Carefully apply and sandwich the Panacur in between the pieces of food and feed to your tortoise.

7. Keep a record of the date and dosage given.

8. Repeat the dose at 10 day intervals for 3 doses.

Out of precaution we carry out periodic faecal examinations on all our tortoises. We recommend doing this in the early Spring and late Summer as it is unsafe to let your tortoise hibernate with worms. The problem should be treated early on as high concentrations of the parasites can cause your tortoise serious damage.

Also see our 'Tortoise Faecal Sample Examination' page which details how to carry out your own worm sampling.