How to Care for a Pet Turtle: A Long-Term Commitment
Turtles can live longer than some humans, captivating more individuals as they bring these shelled creatures into their homes. With the right care and affection, turtles can thrive for many years.
Whether it’s a turtle or tortoise, many Americans are discovering that these pets require significant care. The Humane Society of the United States advises potential turtle owners to conduct thorough research about the needs of turtles, including their living environment, veterinary care, and proper handling, to ensure a happy existence for their new pet.
“If you’re well-informed and ready to take on the responsibilities of a turtle, we recommend adopting from a local animal shelter or rescue organization rather than purchasing one from a pet store,” the Humane Society stated.
Essential Tips for Caring for a Pet Turtle
Experts from Pisces Pros, a company specializing in fish and reptile care, suggest that turtles require a tank that holds a minimum of 40 gallons of water along with a heat lamp. The habitat should include both dry and wet areas to allow the turtle to swim and rest. Regular tank cleaning is imperative, even with good filtration systems in place.
For optimal temperature, the aquatic care experts recommend using both a heat lamp and a water heater. The ideal temperature range for turtles lies between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
“If you handle your turtle or anything in its habitat, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly to avoid the risk of salmonella,” Pisces Pros warned.
Regarding diet, pet turtles are omnivores. Young turtles, aged between 7 and 10 years, require a higher intake of animal proteins, but as they mature, their diet should also include vegetables and fruits. According to Fetch by WebMD, a suitable diet may consist of drained sardines, cooked chicken, moths, and worms. They can also enjoy a variety of vegetables and fruits, including dandelions, mustard greens, cantaloupe, and bananas.
What Type of Water Do Turtles Prefer?
The type of water varies based on the turtle species. As per the California Turtle and Tortoise Club, box turtles, desert tortoises, and aquatic turtles each have unique water requirements.
Box turtles thrive in outdoor environments away from predators and can drink standard tap water safely.
Adult desert tortoises also need to be kept outside, provided with weather protection and a safe area for nighttime retreat. Yards should be secure so that tortoises can move about freely. Hatchlings should also be outdoors, but in a safeguarded enclosure that allows for some sunlight.
Aquatic turtles necessitate more detailed care and should ideally live outside to mimic their natural surroundings, according to the club. They require a spacious swimming area, such as a children’s pool, complemented by cinder blocks, rocks, and floating logs. Female turtles need dry spots for laying eggs and areas with vegetation for burrowing and concealment.
The club cautions all owners to pay attention to hibernation periods when turtles’ life processes slow down. This generally occurs in colder months with shorter daylight, which limits food availability and alters their behavior. It is advised not to hibernate sick or injured turtles due to their compromised life functions.
“Hibernation results in halted digestion, decreased circulation, and a slowdown or cessation of the immune system and other bodily defenses,” notes the website. “These changes can lead to unchecked disease progression, making even minor health issues severe for turtles and tortoises.”
How Large Do Pet Turtles Get?
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, a chain of veterinary clinics, box turtles typically have a diameter of 5 to 7 inches as adults. Male aquatic turtles usually reach lengths of 7 to 9 inches, while females can grow between 10 to 12 inches.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reports that desert tortoises weigh in the range of 8 to 15 pounds and can grow up to 15 inches long and 6 inches high.
What Is the Lifespan of Pet Turtles?
Katrina Smith, from the Mid-Atlantic Turtle and Tortoise Society in Baltimore, revealed that some turtles can live to be around 100 years old. Many rescue organizations frequently take in turtles that have outlived their owners, which often occurs if older individuals adopt older turtles.
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Contributing: Olivia Munson
Contact reporter Krystal Nurse on X @KrystalRNurse, and on BlueSky @krystalrnuse.bsky.social.