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How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food

Max. D Gray
By Max. D Gray. Updated: January 20, 2017
How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food

Terrapins are great pets but like any other animal they require special care and attention to keep them healthy. And one of the things that most owners often worry about is their food as it is not always very clear what kind of food we can give them and how to feed them, especially when we have a fussy animal that doesn't take to the dry food you have purchased.

So at OneHowto we set your mind at ease and explain how to feed terrapins when they won't eat store-bought food to ensure that they are healthy.

You may also be interested in: How to feed turtles
Steps to follow:
1

Buying commercial food available in pet shops is a great way to feed terrapins as they are often very nutritious and provide everything that these animals need to grow healthily.

However it is possible that your terrapin will decide not eat it. This is very common if they are new pets or they aren't used to this type of food. Don't forget that in their natural habitat, they are herbivores or omnivores, depending on the species. Depending on which one they are, there are other options you can choose from.

How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food - Step 1
2

If your terrapin is not eating or if you want to mix this packaged food with more natural products to make them seem more like their natural food, we've outlined many alternatives for you to choose from.

The first and easiest is vegetables. Remember that these animals do like this kind of food. Some small pieces of lettuce, carrots, cabbage or cucumber can become a tasty addition to your terrapin's meal, which I'm sure they will appreciate.

If you notice that they only eat the vegetables and ignore the shop-bought food, it is important that you continue trying to give it at least once a week, because after some time most of them usually begin to eat it.

How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food - Step 2
3

As for animal protein, fish is a very simple option because you can give your terrapin a little of what you buy for yourself. Remember always give them raw fish that isn't very salty. Of course, if leaving on holiday, do not leave raw fish as it will go bad and might make your pet sick.

Before giving fish to your terrapin it is good wash it well to get rid of the fat. You also need to know that raw fish usually dirties their water so it will be necessary to change it after the animal has eaten. Avoid giving them oily fish (tuna, salmon or sardines), as these contain a lot of fat and will make the water even more dirty.

How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food - Step 3
4

Crickets are also an excellent alternative for your terrapins. Full of nutrients and vitamins, these are widely available in pet shops specializing in reptiles, and turtles usually love them. The amount you give them depends on the species and size of your terrapin, so it is best to ask a specialist. Again, while away on holiday, crickets are not a good option as they will run away or run out.

How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food - Step 4
5

Another good alternative to vary the diet of your terrapin is with larvae. These are also widely available in shops specialising in reptile food. They are a great source of nutrients and your pet will find them delicious.

6

Generally small insects are a good option to feed your terrapin as it will allow them to get used to a little normal shop-bought food. This will be particularly good to prevent them from getting bored. Ants or spiders that we usually find in our home can become a feast for our pet.

7

These are just a few good suggestions but if you have any questions regarding the amount of food you should give your terrapin, it is best to ask a specialist to be certain.

8

In addition to your terrapin's diet, you should look after them in other ways too, including the following:

  • The water inside your terrapin tank should be sufficiently deep so that the animal can swim.
  • It is essential to put a rock in the tank so that your terrapin can rest and sunbathe out of the water.
  • It is important to put your terrapins tank somewhere in your home where it will be in sunlight.
  • The temperature of the tank should be between 26 and 28°C. It is important that the temperature never drops below 25°C because it could make your turtle ill.
  • The water in the tank must always be clean to prevent your pet catching any diseases.
  • Find out how to clean a pet turtle for advice on cleaning your reptile.
How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food - Step 8

If you want to read similar articles to How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food, we recommend you visit our Pets category.

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How to Feed Terrapins if they Won't Eat Store-Bought Food