When caring for freshwater turtles or saltwater turtles, it’s essential to know what foods to feed them. A balanced diet should include both meat and plant-based foods; additionally, supplements may be suggested in order to guarantee your pet gets all necessary nutrients.
Turtles typically consume 80-90% vegetables and flowers, with the remainder being fruit. High-calcium fruits such as figs, strawberries, dates and apricots should make up part of their diet for optimal health benefits.
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Fresh Fruit and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables should make up at least part of your turtle’s diet. Examples of edible fruits and veggies include apples, pears, bananas, mangoes, grapes, starfruit, raisins and more.
Canned fruits and vegetables can also be used, but they must be thoroughly checked for pesticides. Some berries, such as blueberries, may have a high level of pesticides which could prove hazardous to turtles.
Young turtles should be fed a varied diet with 50-60% leafy greens and 20% fruit. As they get older, the ratio of animal protein to vegetables will gradually be reduced.
Be mindful that oxalates found in certain vegetables, such as chard, can inhibit calcium absorption. To combat this issue, provide your child with a calcium supplement twice weekly.
Canned Fruit and Vegetables
Canned fruits and vegetables are an ideal option for your turtle when you don’t have access to fresh produce. Because these foods have been picked at their peak freshness hours before being canned, many of their essential nutrients remain intact.
Cautionary Note: Be mindful of added salt and sugar on labels when purchasing products for reptiles, as these can cause digestive issues. Opt for products with reduced sodium or no sodium content.
As previously stated, box turtles’ diet should consist of leafy greens and fruit. Some of the best choices for box turtles include kale, collard greens, romaine lettuce, dandelion greens, and green beans.
Meat
Turtles are omnivores, meaning they will consume a variety of foods. While they occasionally eat meat or fish, most prefer plant-based nutrition.
Fresh vegetables are the ideal food choice for most turtles, particularly those with darker outer leaves and lighter greener inside. These types of veggies contain vitamin A – an essential nutrient for turtles.
When feeding your turtle, the amount of food depends on their age and size. A reliable way to measure is by holding a pellet in your hand and seeing how much fits inside their head.
Chicken, beef and pork make great treats for your turtle. Be sure to cook the meat thoroughly and drain all fat off before feeding it to avoid salmonella bacteria that could be harmful to your turtle.
Fish
Fish are an integral part of many turtle’s diets. However, fish should never replace other types of food for your turtle and should never be the sole source provided to it.
Turtles in the wild eat a variety of plant and animal matter, such as fruits, vegetables, insects, and other small invertebrates. Offering your turtle an varied diet can keep it healthy and contented.
Feeding your turtle fish food can be a rewarding way to give them an occasional snack or treat. Just be sure to limit it to no more than a few pellets or flakes per week.
Other Treats
When feeding your turtle, it is wise to offer him a variety of foods. This will encourage their natural feeding habits and provide them with a nutritious diet.
For instance, you can offer your turtle fresh vegetables like shredded carrots, squash and peas. Or try offering various fruits such as berries, bananas and apples.
You can also provide your turtle with some small insects or worms to add protein to their diet. These can be purchased at pet stores or online and are easy for your turtle to eat.
