He always finishes his bowl and i think i'm feeding him about 1/2 cup of vegetables (variety that was on russian tort website) every morning, seems very active and poops everyday or at least every other. I always think he is still hungry. Should I let him be?
2006-10-24 13:13:32 · 3 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Reptiles
I'm from the school of "Feed them as much as they want." I have always figured they don't ask us how much to eat in the wild so they must know when to quit eating without our guidance while in captivity. If you think he is hungry by the pleading look in his eyes then feed him! I've never seen a fat tortoise. Good luck!
Okay. I decided to answer your question responsibly so I looked it up. In captivityRussian tortoises are popular pets primarily because of their small size, but they are also an extremely hardy species. Though captive breeding is still not commonplace (though it is done), wild caught specimens adapt well to captivity and readily consume a wide variety of fiberous greens, grasses and vegetables. They will also eat fruit, but should only be given it in small quantities, as excess sugars are not good for them. These tortoises use fiber for energy instead of protein. So only monitor their fruit intake.
Here is link for further info: http://encyclopedia.thefreedictionary.com/russian+tortoise
2006-10-26 13:13:43 · answer #1 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Tortoises will pig out given a chance, so it is up to us to practice a little 'tough love' to help keep them trim.
2006-10-24 21:05:14 · answer #2 · answered by Madkins007 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, if you are worried, feed him just a little bit more than usual, and see what happens. If you are still worried ask a veterinarian.
2006-10-24 20:25:50 · answer #3 · answered by Cloud 9 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋