My tortoise seems to have a cold

Question
What can I do for my tortoise who seems to have mucus in her eyes?  She had some signs of mucus through her nose also but seems to be getting better.

Answer
Hi Randy, If she has just minor symptoms of a respiratory infection you may be able to help her get over it just by raising her enclosure temperature. That will boost her own natural immune system. Make sure her basking area temperature is at the upper end of the recommended range for her species. For the Mediterranean tortoises, (Hermann's, Russians and Greeks) that would 95F in the basking area, don't worry if it is a couple degrees higher. Redfoot tortoises also require a low to mid 90'S range while sulcatas should have a 100F basking area.
If she seems lethargic and is off her food I wouldn't wait too long before seeking veterinary care. If you can hear any clicking or popping as she breathes (you may need to hold her up to your ear) that is indicative of mucous further down her repiratory tract.
Respiratory infections are rather common in tortoise but some types of wood bedding such as pine or cedar can also cause irritation.