Is Pumpkin a De-wormer for Tortoises

Is Pumpkin a De-wormer for Tortoises

Sulcata tortoises can contract different types of worms. If you’re looking for a natural de-wormer for your tortoise, you’ll likely come across pumpkin as an option.

Pumpkin Seeds or Pumpkin Meat

There are many different references about using pumpkin as a natural de-wormer for tortoises. Some claim the seeds are the de-wormer, whereas other believe its the meat (or the pumpkin guts). Unfortunately, there isn’t enough scientific data that proves natural dewormers like pumpkin has any measurable benefit.

However, Native American tribes used pumpkin seeds to heal wounds, cure kidney ailments AND as a parasitic treatment for people. But generally speaking, most seeds contain poisons that keep them from being eaten, and these toxins are what supposedly kill worms.

It’s thought that the toxins in pumpkin seeds are most effective on tapeworms and internal parasites. Tapeworms are actually rare in tortoises. Nonetheless, some studies have shown pumpkin can reduce worm and parasite population in lab animals.

Pumpkin may not be the most effected de-worming agent.

Can Tortoises EAT Pumpkin Seeds?

Absolutely. Although, it’s thought the only way the seeds actually work as a de-wormer is if you chop up or grind pumpkin seeds. Larger tortoises will typically swallow the seeds whole and pass them whole.

You can offer pumpkin meat and ground seeds once in a while. Because it’s not a great staple for Sulcatas, limit the amount of pumpkin you do offer. If you think that it will help keep worms and parasites in your tortoise at a minimum, offer once every few months as a worm prevention. Although, you shouldn’t have to worm your tortoise regularly.

How to Treat Worms in Tortoises

The most successful way to treat worms in tortoises is to have a veterinarian diagnose what type of worm that your tortoise has then prescribe treatment. In most cases, the veterinarian will prescribe Panacur. Typically treatment will last a few days with a follow-up dose in a week or two.

Other Benefits to Feeding Pumpkin to Tortoises

Besides feeding pumpkin as a natural dewormer, pumpkin is a superfood. Pumpkin is highly nutritious and rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, folate, beta carotene and antioxidants.

Pumpkin meat can also be used an a natural laxative. If your tortoise is a little stopped up, you can mush up the pumpkin meat and offer it with the regular diet for a meal or two. Or you can mix the mushed pumpkin with warm water and soak the tortoise in the mix.