Can Russian Tortoises eat Aloe Vera?
Aloe barbadensis miller
Safety verdict
Toxic
Why
[confidence: high] [source: The Tortoise Table plant database (www.thetortoisetable.org.uk), exotic reptile veterinarian consultation, peer-reviewed herpetology or veterinary toxicology journal review] Aloe vera contains anthraquinone glycosides (including aloin/barbaloin) in the latex layer beneath the skin, which are known laxatives and can cause gastrointestinal distress, diarrhea, and potentially organ damage in Russian Tortoises. The Tortoise Table lists aloe vera as a plant to avoid for tortoises.
How much / how often
Should not be offered; no safe quantity established for this species.
Preparation
Even removing the latex layer does not render this plant reliably safe for Russian Tortoises; avoidance is strongly recommended.
Nutrition (per 100 g)
8 mg
Calcium
5 mg
Phosphorus
1.6:1
Ca:P ratio
none
Oxalate
Reviewed by admin on May 2026