horn under deser tortoises neck

Question
I live in Glendale AZ.  I have had a desert tortoise for many, many years. He is a member of our family.  The horn under his neck is beginning to grow up now and will eventually make it impossible for him to eat, etc.  



Would it be traumatic or hurt him if I cut off the upturned end  of that horn?  

Answer
The 'horn' is living bone and vascular tissues, a part of the tortoise's plastron. Cutting it requires a surgical operation.

Desert Tortoises grow these 'battering rams' as they mature to use in combat with other males. While I suppose it is possible, I have never heard of one growing it out in a way that interferes with its life.

http://courses.washington.edu/vertebra/452/photos/diapsids/turtle_photos.htm shows a photo of a Desert Tortoise showing the 'battering ram' made from the gular scutes.

You can try http://www.tortoise.org for more details, or to find more experts on that species that can help you!

Good luck!