spot on shell red footed tortoise

Question
I have a red footed tortoise he's about 4 months old. He is loved and well cared for. He recently got a spot on his upper shell (in the ridge-where the black lines are). It is a yellow color similar to the spots that are normal on his shell ... Its not spongey but not rock hard like the normal ridges. The spot is in a corner of the ridge about the size of match head not reaaly big. I was told by a pet shop who deals with reptiles to apply anti-fungal cream. I did so for two weeks. The spot is still there but has not spread or gotten deeper. I hope you may be able to give me some idea as to what it is or what I should do. He is not affected by the spot and seems to be thriving. Thanks

Answer
Many Red-foots show 'mottling', either in small spots, or in the new growth areas all over. Mottling is normal if...
- It is occuring in the growth zone between scutes (scales). (FYI- the growth zone is a little softer than the main scute, at least for a while and especially after a soak.)
- The color is about the same as the light areas of the shell.
- The colored area is not a different height or texture than the rest of the shell. Rot or fungus would be softer, fuzzy, raised or lowered, etc.


If it is not normal mottling, then try scrubbing the area with a toothbrush and a paste of water and salt, then dabbing it heavily with Betadine Solution (providone iodine). Repeat at least daily. If there is no improvement in a week or so, see a vet to get it properly diagnosed.

Good luck!