Turtles are adorable creatures, and they make lovely pets too! However, a lot of people are unaware of how to take care of a turtle.
Well, you’re in the right place. Let me assure you that taking care of a turtle isn’t as hard as you might think. Nonetheless, you still have to do some things the right way.
So, without further ado, allow me to tell you what you have to do to keep this charming animal.
You can keep different turtles as pets. However, all have different needs for lighting, shelter, temperature, and food. So, you have to be mindful of the type to keep them safe and cheery.
How to take care of a baby turtle?
If you are going to keep a baby turtle, then you have to commit to the task. They require special care until they grow mature.
Let’s start with their homes. For a baby turtle, you wouldn’t want the water to be too deep or too shallow. As a rule of the thumb, keep the water level an inch above the baby pet. Moreover, you have to provide clean water, so it’s best to invest in a filtration system.
Also, you have to set up the baby turtle in a large tank so it can move around freely. Since they cannot regulate their body temperature, you’d have to do it for them. Baby turtles like it warm, so you’d have to set the temperature between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Another thing to consider is lighting. Baby turtles need the light to synthesize Vitamin D. For food, make them eat the turtle food available in your local pet store. Don’t spoil them by feeding more than twice. If you do so, it will mess up the shell.
Moreover, be sure to cover the tank with metal top and add rocks and plants in it for the natural feels.
Red-eared slider turtle care
The red-eared slider is a famous pet turtle, and loveable too! They are water-loving and spend most of their time in the water. Red-eared get their name from the marks present on the sides of their heads.
The red-eared slider can live for two decades if you treat them right. At most, they can grow up to a foot long. If you are going to keep one, make sure that there is sufficient water. There is no hard and fast rule, but it is best to hold 10 gallons for an inch of the turtle.
Moreover, like baby turtles, they need warm and clean water. So, you’d have to spend on a water heater, filtration system, and a UVB lamp for their lighting needs. Be sure to keep the temperature between 75 and 85 degrees.
The red-eared sliders are omnivores. They’ll eat anything you give them. However, your best bets are on commercial turtle food, leafy vegetables, shrimps, and worms.
How to take care of a box turtle?
Here we have another cute turtle. However, the box turtles are more demanding than the red-eared ones. So, I won’t recommend you get it if it’s going to be your first pet.
The box turtle can grow up to half a foot long. Like other turtles, they also need UVB light and warm water. Make sure that it is within the 60-85 degrees range.
Although it’s best to keep them outdoor if you are going to keep it in an aquarium, make sure it is big enough for the turtle to swim. The box turtles pollute the water more often, so you have to replace it daily.
The box turtles are also omnivores. They, like other turtles, will eat almost anything. To see the best of their growth, provide them with calcium-rich foods. Moreover, you can prepare a mixed diet with vegetables and worms.
- Related: What do Painted Turtles Eat
Conclusion
Turtles are an excellent choice for pets. They are cute and can live for long. However, for a long life to happen, you have to take good care of them.
Be sure to keep them warm, provide UVB lighting, and feed them right. Then, you get a lovely pet for decades! If you like this pet and read more about How to Take Care of a Turtle you can visit PetsHoods.
FAQs
How much water do turtles need?
The answer depends on the size of the turtle. For every inch, add 10 gallons of water. So, for a five-inch turtle, fifty gallons will be enough.
Do turtles need light at night?
No, if their daylight needs are complete, then they do not require light at night. However, you should provide them with a UVB light indoors during day time.
Do turtles get lonely?
Well, not really. Turtles are not exuberant creatures. They enjoy themselves the best when alone. If you put a couple of turtles in the tank, they might start a fight.
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