my turttles are not eating what should i do
2007-09-24 11:55:24 · 7 answers · asked by bobatea 3 in Pets ➔ Reptiles
Make sure that they're warm enough. They're cold blooded, so when the ambient temperature gets too low, their metabolism slows down and they don't eat or digest their food. Giving them a heater or a heat lamp usually takes care of the problem. Mine have a heat lamp because they tend to think they're going to start hibernating if the light isn't on long enough. If they go into a false hibernation, they will also stop eating, and it may take some convincing before they'll start again.
Turtles don't have to eat every day, necessarily, so if it's only been a day or so, the problem may just be lack of appetite. However, if these are new turtles, I would suggest taking them to a vet who specializes in reptiles to make sure that they aren't carrying any parasites and that they are healthy. The vet can also give you tips to get your turtles eating again.
2007-09-24 12:00:48 · answer #1 · answered by Bethany 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Well first, you should try to have a water temperature of about 85-88 degrees F. The basking temperature should be about 95 degrees F. Try to feed it foods that have a somewhat strong aroma. Try to dip the food in the water found in most canned fish. Try some live animals such as earthworms, guppies etc. If you like, you can dust some of the food in crushed, powdered eggshells. The turtle should be basking and swimming normally. If it is cold and you keep it outside, it is a sign of hibernation. MAKE SURE IT HAS WARM WATER AND A BASKING LIGHT. For further info email me
-Moonlight
2007-09-24 23:31:35 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
With such little information it is difficult to make any recommendations. What species of turtle do you have? How are you keeping it (Diet, temperature, environment/set up)? Turtles, although fascinating creatures, are very difficult animals to look after properly. Not only can they be extremely long lived (many species over 50 years) and thus are a lifelong commitment, but they also require specialized diets and environmental conditions. It can be difficult for the average and/or undereducated pet owner to realize this, as many turtle species are very hardy animals and can often survive (barely) in unsuitable conditions for substantial (in comparison to many other animals) periods of time. That said, a turtle that is "surviving" is not necessarily thriving. It is absolutely imperative to thoroughly research (multiple sources are best - internet, books, etc.) a potential pet (down to the species!!!) before purchasing an animal. This not only applies to turtles but to all animals.
My suggestions to the individual asking the question:
- research the species (kind) of turtle that you have
- compare the care needs outlined in the information you gather to the care that you are currently giving your pet
- adjust your methods accordingly
- if health does not improve or animals health appears to be declining rapidly, consult a veterinarian that is familiar with reptiles (it is very important to consult a vet with reptile experience as many are not trained to deal with reptiles or other exotics)
Good luck with your turtle!
2007-09-24 20:01:39 · answer #3 · answered by Sean E 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You don't need a vet- you need to study proper turtle care.
Since you refuse to provide any info as to how you're keeping or feeding them, it's anybody's guess as to what you're doing wrong.
2007-09-24 19:15:13 · answer #4 · answered by Dion J 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i know this sounds crazy, but bring them to the vet!! when my turtles didn't eat i brought them to the vet and they had some sort of disorder that is very common. the vet will diagnose it and then you will know why they aren't eating. you feel much better about it. but if you don't bring them soon they might die because no living thing on this earth can live without food!! good luck and hope this helped!!
2007-09-24 18:59:32 · answer #5 · answered by jbells13 4 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Well, what are you feeding it? What kind of turtles are they? I've owned 2 red eard sliders and fed them these little turtle sticks that they really liked. If there's no problem with the food you should ask your vet.
2007-09-24 19:00:42 · answer #6 · answered by ramonesfan05 3 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Most common reasons are too cold of temperatures, or wrong diet being offered. Without knowing more about the turtle, I cannot offer tighter advice.
Try http://www.austinsturtlepage.com for more ideas.
2007-09-24 21:35:25 · answer #7 · answered by Madkins007 7 · 3⤊ 1⤋