Tortoises are among the longest-lived companion animals, with welfare needs that are frequently misunderstood and inadequately met in domestic settings.
Tortoises kept indoors without adequate UV-B lighting and calcium develop metabolic bone disease causing shell abnormalities and compromised health. Incorrect diet causes nutritional deficiencies over years. Incorrect hibernation management causes death from bladder stone formation, respiratory infection, or starvation. The long lifespan of tortoises means welfare mistakes compound over decades. A tortoise bought for a child will likely outlive the child's parents and requires provision in their owner's estate planning.