i have a small aquatic turtle and petsmart told me i need a heat lamp so he'll grow. Will this work??

Question

I've had my turtle for four or five years and have had no problems with him the guy at petsmart says he hasnt grown is because he doesnt have a heat lamp or something . Is this true?

Answer 1

Before you take any of these answers as what you should do, what is your turtle's species and how big is he?

If this is a map turtle and he's around 3-4 inches, that's a normal size!

Truthfully, we really don't have enough info here to give you a proper answer! Everyone is guessing or assuming your turtle is a red-eared slider - which it may very well be, but we don't KNOW that! There are other aquatic turtles for sale.

If you do have a species that should be larger, you should look at supplemental heat, diet, and calcium/vitamin supplements - any of these could cause him not to grow properly.

I didn't remember if Madkins gave you this website (probably did, but I'll add it to make sure you have it), check your turtle's species, adult size, and care requirements. Also it's gender, because males may be smaller then females - this site will give you info on that as well.

http://www.austinsturtlepage.com/

Answer 2

A Red-ear slider that is 4-5 years old should be about 6" or so (it is very variable). If it is not, then the poor thing has led a stressful life.

Cold water temps are one big stress- turtles want warm water- most want 75-80 degrees F. They also want big tanks and more.

Try the great articles at http://www.austinsturtlepage.com for lots of helpful advice!

Answer 3

Reptiles are cold blooded, so they need a heat lamp to properly digest and use their food. So yea finally someone at petsmart was smart. Shaz

Answer 4

Yeah, they need heat. But they will only get as big as the tank will allow.

Answer 5

This will work, but keep in mind that he/she will only grow as big as his tank will allow.

Answer 6

you should. they grow big if u do it. if thats what u want.