Turtles at Home: Complete Guide

Turtles are one of the oldest reptiles on Earth. These incredible creatures have been around since the time of the dinosaurs, dating back over 200 million years ago. They are unique animals that have hard shells and can boast of considerable longevity. At the same time, they are known for their slow temperament, which not every animal can “compete” with. Many people believe that they are a great choice as a pet, because, at first glance, they may seem low-maintenance. However, it is important to note that most species of turtles have a long life expectancy and require constant care.

Together with you, we will delve into the world of turtles, explore all aspects of their life, learn about the characteristics of these animals, and try to find the answer to the question of whether are turtles good pets or not.

Interesting Facts About Turtles

• It is disheartening to note that a significant number of turtle species are currently endangered. Out of approximately 300 species of turtles and tortoises on Earth, 129 of them are categorized as vulnerable, endangered, or critically endangered by the IUCN. These species face various threats, including habitat loss, pollution, poaching, and the illegal pet trade. It is crucial that we take action to protect and conserve these remarkable creatures and their fragile ecosystems.

• Turtle vs Tortoise Pet. Although we usually call all such animals turtles, there are differences between them. Turtles are equipped with webbed feet or flippers, enabling them to navigate through water. They are primarily aquatic creatures. On the other hand, tortoises are land-dwelling reptiles and do not possess webbed feet. Unlike turtles, tortoises are not adapted for swimming, and if placed in a body of water, they would likely struggle as they are not natural swimmers.

How to Take Care of a Pet Turtle at Home

Caring for a pet turtle is more challenging than it may seem. Before choosing a turtle as a pet, careful consideration is necessary. Turtles require specialized care and regular cleaning. It's important to note that turtles do not interact well with children, as they can bite and dislike being handled. However, they can still provide enjoyment as pets to observe. Before adopting a turtle, assess the resources, space, and suitable turtle food you can provide, as well as how well they fit within your home and family dynamics.

Most Common Types of Pet Turtles

Most of pet turtle species typically habit in aquatic environments, living in water. However, there are a few types of turtles that are land dwellers. Here are some species that make good pets.

What Do Pet Turtles Eat?

The ideal diet for your turtle depends on factors such as size, species, age, habitat, and individual needs. Here are some key points to consider:

1. What to feed them: Pet turtles are generally omnivores, requiring a mix of animal products, vegetables, and fruits in their diet. Younger turtles may need a higher proportion of animal-based foods. The specific ratio of animal to vegetable foods depends on the turtle's species.

2. Animal food sources: Offer processed pet foods like drained sardines, turtle pellets, and trout chow. Cooked chicken, beef, and turkey can also be provided. Live prey such as moths, crickets, shrimp, krill, feeder fish, and worms are suitable. Ensure insects are sourced from reputable sources or raised at home for quality and safety.

3. Plant food sources: Focus on leafy greens like collards, dandelions, and mustard greens as the primary plant-based foods. Avoid vegetables high in oxalates, such as chives, parsley, and spinach.

4. Fruits and aquatic plants: Offer a variety of fruits like apples, cantaloupe, bananas, berries, and mangoes. Non-toxic aquatic plants such as water hyacinth, water lettuce, and duckweed can also be included.

5. Feeding frequency: Adult turtles can be fed once every day or every other day, while juveniles may require feeding once or twice a day. Adjust feeding frequency based on the specific needs of your turtle's species.

6. Portion control: Provide an amount of food that your turtle can consume within approximately 20 minutes. Remove any leftovers, especially for non-living foods like pellets.

7. Serving the food: Aquatic turtles eat underwater, so place their food in their water tank. For land turtles, serve food on a flat, hard surface like a rock or grass. Consider chopping a mix of vegetables to ensure a varied diet.

8. Species-specific needs: Different turtle species have specific dietary requirements. Research the nutritional needs of your turtle's species and consult with a veterinarian for guidance and any questions or concerns.

By following these guidelines and tailoring the diet to your turtle's specific needs, you can provide them with a balanced and nutritious diet for optimal health and well-being.

Remember, turtles and tortoises are shy creatures, and excessive handling can stress them. Supervise children when interacting with these pets, and always wash your hands after handling them. Consult a veterinarian for any health-related concerns or questions about your reptile's care.

For all your turtle and tortoise supplies, PetSmart offers a wide range of products, including reptile habitats, heating and lighting solutions, cleaning and water care items, feeders, and food storage.

PetSmart provides convenient shopping options with curbside or in-store pickup. Same-day delivery is available in most areas through DoorDash for select items. Additionally, PetSmart's Autoship feature automatically delivers items to your door as frequently as you prefer. Check the website for eligible items.

Please note that the information in this article is not intended as a substitute for veterinary care. Contact a licensed veterinarian for any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Big Can a Pet Turtle Get?

Here are some key details about different turtle species:

• Western painted turtles: These turtles are known for their vibrant red, yellow, and olive-colored shells. They typically range in size from four to ten inches.

• Red-eared sliders: Red-eared sliders are the most common aquatic turtles. They can vary in size from 5 to 12 inches, with females typically being larger than males. These turtles have a lifespan of up to 30 years.

• Eastern box turtles: Native to the Eastern part of the United States, Eastern box turtles range in size from four to eight inches. In the wild, they can live up to an impressive 100 years.

• Texas map turtle: Texas map turtles are sensitive to water quality and require a basking spot if kept as pets. They can range in size from 2.75 to 8.5 inches.

• Wood turtles: Wood turtles need access to both water and dry land in their habitat. They can grow up to nine inches in size.

Do Pet Turtles Smell?

Turtles typically do not have a strong natural scent, but if they do smell, it is often due to the condition of their enclosure. While the enclosure is usually the culprit, there can be other factors at play. Turtles can gather dirt particles on their skin or shells, leading to unpleasant odors. In general, if your turtle has an unpleasant smell, it is likely a sign that it needs to be washed or its tank requires a thorough cleaning. Regular maintenance and cleanliness of the tank are essential to prevent odor buildup and ensure a pleasant environment for your turtle. By keeping the enclosure clean and providing proper care, you can help eliminate any unwanted smells associated with your pet turtle.

How Do Pet Turtles Sleep?

Turtles, both land and aquatic, do sleep, although it can be challenging to determine when they are resting. Research on sleep in turtles has shown varying results across different species, leaving much unknown about their sleep patterns. However, it is clear that turtles do rest, although the distinction between their wake and sleep states may not be as pronounced as in other animals.

Pet turtles typically sleep intermittently throughout the day, with short periods of rest. They may also sleep for several hours at a time. Aquatic turtles can be observed sleeping on a dry dock or with their heads poking out of the water. They may also sleep underwater for shorter durations, resurfacing periodically to breathe. Land turtles, not being swimmers like aquatic turtles, have the flexibility to sleep at any time and in various locations.

While there is still much to learn about the intricacies of turtle sleep, it is evident that they have their own unique patterns and behaviors when it comes to resting.