Things to Know Before Adopting a Tortoise

Tortoises are popular pets, and they're great for individuals who want an interesting animal to look at and admire but not necessarily cuddle with. Tortoise s are fantastic for families with children in elementary school and above, but not so much for families with very young children who might drop them, forget to feed them, or forget to wash their hands after handling them (there's a reason for that – keep reading!). If you're thinking about getting a Tortoise as a pet, here are some fun facts you might not know about them.

What is the best place for a tortoise to live?

Tortoises, with the exception of a few rare species, prefer to live outside. They should be kept in a large outside enclosure with plenty of fresh air and plenty of natural UV light from the sun.

What should my tortoise's enclosure contain?

Tortoises enjoy burrowing, so make sure the enclosure is secure and escape-proof. A protective barrier of concrete bricks or sealed wood walls can be used to accomplish this. Consider a sand and soil mix as a substrate; it's a cost-effective alternative that allows for safe burrowing.

Include the following items in your enclosure:

Shelter – Even though tortoises are outdoor animals, they nevertheless require cover from the sun, rain, and other natural factors.

Plants – Plants are a source of food for tortoises. Your tortoise will be able to feed throughout the day if you keep a good amount of plants in the enclosure. Although most species will consume dandelions and clover, you should research specific species' diets to ensure you don't accidentally combine them with poisonous plants. Many plants can assist reduce the frequency of substrate changes by controlling ammonia and nitrates in the soil.

Shade - Make sure your cage has a permanent shady place where your tortoise can rest on very hot days.

Water supply - Your tortoise will stay hydrated if there is a water source nearby.

Stimulating Surroundings  - A stimulating environment will keep your tortoise occupied. A few stones, grassy patches, and even little trees can help to liven up the space.

Do tortoises go into hibernation?

The majority of Mediterranean tortoise varieties are genetically programmed to hibernate for health reasons. It's not a good idea to force your tortoise into an irregular hibernation because it could harm its health.

Is it possible for tortoises to coexist?

Tortoises are solitary creatures by nature, but keeping two tortoises in the same enclosure should be fine as long as you follow the gender restrictions and keep an eye on them for the first few weeks. Two tortoises should only be kept together if they are both females. If housed with another male or a female, a male tortoise can become extremely aggressive, while one male with two or more females can work.

Feeding a tortoise

What should I feed my tortoise?

Tortoises are omnivores, but they prefer to eat plants.

A lot of your tortoise's food will come from its environment. Having a lot of plants in your cage, especially dandelions, will help keep your tortoise happy all day.

Serve some additional leafy greens into the enclosure three or four times a week. Kale and collards are two examples. - A few times a week, feed the tortoise small insects like crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. On the market, there is also a range of commercial tortoise food. Serving sizes and consistency should be checked in their box and directions. Or get it on our website WWW.PETCARTEL.COM

What should I keep out of my tortoise's diet?

Tortoises are poisoned by a wide range of plants and fruits. Make sure none of the following items are maintained inside the enclosure:

• Daffodils
• Azaleas
• Foxgloves
• Buttercups
• Avocados
• Hydrangeas
• Morning Glory
• Citrus Fruit
• Bean Sprouts

Handling a tortoise

Should I touch or pick up my tortoise?

When pulled up, tortoises have an impulse to thrash their claws. Pick up your tortoise by the shell and support its limbs as much as possible if you want to pick it up. However, dropping a tortoise can crack its shell, resulting in life-threatening illnesses. 

Are tortoises suitable as children's pets?

Tortoises are not recommended as children's pets. Tortoises are delicate creatures whose shells can be fractured even when dropped from a short height. Tortoises can also live for an extraordinarily long time – up to 25 years! They necessitate substantial dedication and should not be acquired based on a child's whim.

When it comes to tortoises, how long do they live?

Tortoises can live for an incredible amount of time – up to 100 years! The typical lifespans of popular pet tortoise breeds are as follows:

• Hermann’s Tortoise – 50 to 60 years
• African Spur-thighed Tortoise – 70 years
• Russian Tortoise – 40 years
• Indian Star Tortoise – 80 years
• Pancake Tortoise – 25-30 years

Caring for my tortoise

What are some of the most prevalent tortoise ailments, and how can I recognize them?

Tortoises are susceptible to a number of ailments and disorders. Keep an eye on your tortoise for any strange behavior or physical changes.

Deficiency in vitamin A

Vitamin A deficiency in the diet is the cause.

Symptoms include epidermal changes, a lack of appetite, tiredness, and eye puffiness.

Respiratory diseases

Bacteria are to blame.

Excess mucus, nasal discharge, fatigue, and loss of appetite are some of the symptoms.

Infections of the shell

Bacteria or cracked shells as a result of the cause

Symptoms include shattered shells caused by falls, cars, or dog bites.

Do I need to vaccinate my tortoise?

Pet tortoises do not need vaccinations. With the correct care, pet tortoises should lead long, healthy lives without the defense of vaccinations.