Giving your tortoises cuddle bone, has many benefits. Lets go over them!

Why Cuddle Bone is a Must-Have for Your Tortoise.

If you’re a tortoise owner, you want the best for your shelled friend — from balanced nutrition to a happy, stimulating environment. One often overlooked but incredibly beneficial accessory is the humble cuddle bone. It might look like a simple object, but this calcium-rich treat can do wonders for your tortoise’s health and happiness.

🐢 What Is a Cuddle Bone?

A cuddle bone (also called a cuttlebone) comes from the internal shell of the cuttlefish. It’s a natural source of calcium and trace minerals, and tortoises love to nibble on it. It’s soft enough to chew but sturdy enough to last — so it’s a safe and engaging accessory for your tortoise’s habitat.

🌿 Top Benefits of Using Cuddle Bone for Tortoises

1. Supports Healthy Shell Growth

Tortoises need calcium to build and maintain strong shells. Without enough calcium, their shell can become soft or misshapen — a condition known as metabolic bone disease. Chewing on a cuddle bone is a natural way for tortoises to supplement their calcium intake.

2. Strengthens Bones

Just like shell health, bone strength is dependent on good calcium levels. Regular access to a cuddle bone helps fortify your tortoise’s skeletal system — giving them the support they need for movement and everyday activities.

3. Promotes Dental Health

Chewing isn’t just enjoyable — it’s functional. As tortoises nibble on cuddle bone, they gently wear down their beaks and keep them at a healthy length. This self-regulated trimming prevents overgrowth and beak problems.

4. Encourages Natural Behavior

In the wild, tortoises would spend time foraging and nibbling on calcium-rich plants and rocks. A cuddle bone mimics that experience in captivity, giving them something safe to explore and chew. This enriches their environment and reduces boredom.

5. Provides Minerals Beyond Calcium

Cuddle bone isn’t just calcium — it contains other trace minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which contribute to overall health and metabolism.

6. Easy to Use and Long-Lasting

Simply place the cuddle bone in your tortoise’s enclosure, and your pet will take it from there. Most tortoises will start exploring and chewing within days. It lasts a long time — so a single bone can provide months of enrichment and nutritional support.

🧠 Tips for Adding Cuddle Bone to Your Tortoise’s Habitat

• Secure It Properly: Use a clip, holder, or strong suction cup to keep the bone off the ground. This helps keep it clean and prevents waste.

• Monitor Use: Some tortoises may prefer other food sources, while others go to town on their cuddle bone. Make sure they’re using it and still eating a balanced diet.

• Replace When Needed: Once it’s worn down or no longer interest-inducing, swap it out for a fresh one.

• Combine With a Good Diet: Cuddle bone is a supplement — not a substitute for high-quality greens, veggies, and other dietary needs specific to your tortoise species.

🐾 Final Thoughts

Cuddle bones are a simple, affordable, and highly effective way to improve your tortoise’s health and quality of life. From strengthening their shell and bones to providing mental enrichment, this natural accessory deserves a spot in every tortoise habitat. Your shelled companion will thank you with a healthier shell and a happier disposition!