What Can I Feed My Pet Turtle?

Turtles have at least one major benefit over those other pets, even though they may not be as cuddly and adorable as dogs or cats , they need very little maintenance, provided you ensure that they have a healthy balanced diet, environmental conditions and clean surroundings.

Your turtle's ideal diet will vary depending on its size, species, age, habitat, and other factors. Although adult turtles and tortoises could occasionally skip a meal, young turtles and tortoises require more nutrition. Your young turtle or tortoise needs to be fed at least once every day. To promote their healthy growth and development, they require the extra protein, vitamins, and nutrients.

Because they are omnivores, turtles can eat a variety of foods. In other words, they  can  consume the majority of the food you have in your house. Your turtle will happily accept and eat all forms of human food, including meat, fish, veggies, and fruits. Typically, younger turtles (7–10 years old) require a bigger portion of nutrients derived from animals. Depending on the species, your pet turtle requires a distinct mix of animal and vegetable feeds.

Turtle owners naturally want the best for their pet and are constantly looking for new things to feed them. Hence, we’ve listed down foods that you can feed your pet turtle :

• Pellets : Pellets are the main source of nourishment for turtles. This is a highly practical choice because it is commercial food made specifically for tortoises.
• Fish : Fish is a perfect snack for turtles. After all, it comes as no surprise. They swim alongside fish and hunt the fish in the same habitat. In the wild, fish serve as their main source of wholesome protein. Therefore, your turtle will cheerfully accept and consume whatever fish you have in your home. Not all fish are safe for turtles. Always exercise caution while choosing the type of fish to feed your turtle.
• Various Meats : Cooked chicken, beef, and turkey are examples of animal-based food sources for turtles. Moths, insects, shrimp, krill, and worms are examples of live prey. To assure quality and safety, only purchase insects from a pet shop, an uncultivated area, or grow your own.
• Fruits : Giving your turtle fruits on a regular basis is a good way to boost their general health and lower their risk of illness. In addition to being rich in vitamins and minerals, fruits are also quite high in fiber.

Food to Avoid : Human grade foods such as chocolate, dairy products, nuts, bread, sugar based foods, processed foods, and fried foods are harmful to turtle health.

To summarize, you should limit the number of human foods you feed them (with an exception of fresh fruits and veggies). Give them turtle pellets or other foods that are high in nutrition. While a turtle will eat almost anything you offer them, they may not want your food, so don't force it on them.