The urate should look firm moist and white along w/ the dark moist and firm--- that will tell you if hes hydrated -- look for the white - are you taking basking temps w/ a digital probe ? that is the most accurate way besides the infrared heat gun-- if you leave the veggies in the tank for him please put them on the cooler side of the tank it will stay hydrated longer
Karrie
Karrie
At 8 yrs.old they are past the middle of their life and getting up there,10-12 is considered an average lifespan. But his being 8 would not cause his condition, that was just extreme neglect, hopefully he doesn't have an underlying illness. So far so good though. 
