The beautiful shell markings of the painted turtle make it a popular choice for someone interested in a reptile as a pet. As with any other pet, however, paying attention to its specific pet health needs is essential in helping the turtle enjoy a long and healthy life. Here are a few things you should do to care for your painted turtle.

Top 3 Pet Health Considerations For Painted Turtles

1. A Healthy Diet

Painted turtles are omnivorous creatures that prefer to eat while swimming. Healthy food options include leafy green vegetables, aquatic plants, worms, and small fish. Aquatic turtle pellets are also specially formulated to provide the nutrients a turtle needs to thrive. A diet that is high in protein and calcium, but low in fat, is best.

2. A Warm & Spacious Tank

By the time a painted turtle reaches adulthood, it should be in a tank that provides at least 20 gallons of water volume for swimming. Use a water filter to keep the water clear and clean—an essential part of turtle health. For indoor tanks, a UV heat lamp is recommended to provide vitamin D and adequate heat. The tank should never get below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally, water will be kept between 75 and 80 degrees, while basking areas can reach 95 degrees.

3. Knowing When Your Turtle is Sick

As with any other pet, a painted turtle can get sick from parasites, infections, or disease. Look for issues like swelling behind the eyes, nasal drainage, unusual shell growths or discoloration, and changes in behavior (especially eating habits). Take your painted turtle to a vet for a diagnosis and treatment.

No matter what type of pet health issue you’re dealing with, you can trust Parker Animal Clinic in Clarksville, AR. With 20 years of experience, this animal hospital provides pet vaccines and preventative medicine for exotic animals such as turtles and other reptiles. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (479) 754-5656.