Tortoises depending on the species generally start displaying the signs of hibernation at the start of winter usually in the month of October; the typical signs are sluggishness and a decrease in appetite. Hibernation is a time when the bodily processes like digestion, circulation slow down considerably and the hibernating animal depends on the fat it has stored throughout the year in its body for survival.

There are various things to watch out for before an animal like a tortoise can hibernate. First and foremost one should take note of the species of tortoise as well as the overall condition of the tortoise whether it was sick and had lost weight in the period prior to going in to hibernation as that would affect the tortoise adversely during hibernation. Ideally a tortoise hibernates in a burrow in the wild but one has to be careful with regards to the tortoise drowning due to heavy rains or being attacked by predators like rats while hibernating.

Hence it is better to keep the tortoise in a cardboard box and keep it in the cupboard or some place where the temperature would be warm and stable. One should also ensure that the tortoise does not dehydrate and ensure that it is given baths before hibernating. The hibernating period ends by March or April during which the tortoise should be observed for signs of activity and overall condition. Once the tortoise comes out of hibernation it should be given a warm bath and kept outdoors for a short time.