2004, PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. All rights reserved.

(0315) 1 of 2

Aquatic turtles are fun to watch swim. They like a peaceful and warm climate.
Over time and with proper handling, turtles learn to recognize you as you
approach. They are gentle creatures that like to be in or near water all the time.
Is an aquatic turtle the right companion animal for you?







If you answered Yes to these statements, an aquatic turtle may be the right choice for you! Continue reading
about how to care for an aquatic turtle and consult with a PETCO associate to learn more. PETCO is committed
to responsible companion animal care.

Average Size 5 to 14 inches long Life Span Up to 50+ years with proper care

Diet Live feeder fish, earthworms, meal worms, blood worms, snails, crickets
Turtle pellets; dark, leafy greens, chopped or grated carrots, squash

Feeding Juveniles can be fed daily; adults every other day
Consider a separate feeding tank to keep the main tank more clean; turtles are messy eaters
and may defecate shortly after meals; uneaten food can contaminate their water
Turtles require calcium for healthy shells and bones; add a calcium and vitamin/mineral
supplement to food

Housing Size Appropriate size habitat with a screened lid so the turtle cannot escape; adult turtles
need more room; consider a second tank for feeding to reduce cleanup of the main habitat
Substrate Slate, rock, or large smooth gravel, too large to eat, is optional; water for
swimming with an area shallow enough for the turtle to rest in with its head sticking out; dry
land area for basking; create slopes for easy entry and exit to swimming area
Temperature Temperature gradient (100 F. for the warm end and 70 F. for the cool end);
recommend radiant heat; use an incandescent light or ceramic heater as primary heat source
Lighting Provide needed UVB rays with full spectrum fluorescent light for 10 to 12 hours a
day; incandescent light is needed for basking area
Water Aquatic turtles drink the water they swim in, so it needs to be changed frequently;
water should be clean, fresh, filtered, and chlorine-free
Do not house different species of reptiles together

Recommended
Supplies
Depending on
species


Yes No Check Yes or No after reading the following statements:
1. I know that choosing this turtle can be a lifelong commitment.
2. I have room for an appropriate sized habitat.
3. I can feed and clean up after a turtle daily.
4. I can commit to providing proper care for this turtle.
5. A mature person will provide responsible and primary care for this companion animal.

Aquatic Turtle
Includes African side-necked, map, painted, and softshell
Habitat and screen lid Full spectrum light Smooth rocks, driftwood
Variety of fresh, live
food
Incandescent basking light Good mechanical water
filter
Book about turtles Vitamin/mineral supplement Thermometer

2 of 2 SKU 926787 2004, PETCO Animal Supplies, Inc. All rights reserved. (0315)

Normal
Behavior and
Interaction
Shy, calm, and tame; swims in water; basks on dry land
Some will bite when frightened; the musk turtle (stinkpot) releases a stinky yellow fluid when
pestered
Recommend against putting plastic plants and dcor in the tank as most will try to eat them
Adept at climbing and digging to escape
Some aquatic turtle species hibernate; check with your veterinarian to learn about the
hibernation needs of your turtle (duration and housing changes)

Habitat
Maintenance
Always needs access to a water environment and a warm temperature
Thoroughly clean the tank at least once a week: set turtle aside in a secure habitat; scrub the
tank and furnishings; rinse thoroughly with water; add clean substrate; use a water filtration
system

Grooming
and Hygiene
Always wash your hands before and after touching your aquatic turtle or habitat contents to
help prevent Salmonella and other infectious diseases

Signs of a
Healthy Animal


Common
Health Issues


Red Flags


If you notice any of these signs, please contact your exotic animal veterinarian.

Sources The ASPCA Complete Guide to Pet Care by David L. Carroll
Turtles & Tortoises: Caring For Them, Feeding and Understanding Them by Hartmut Wilke
Turtles and Tortoises for Dummies by Liz Palika
Note: The information on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. If you need additional
information, please refer to the above sources or contact your veterinarian as appropriate.

Eye, nose, or mouth discharge Discolored, bumps or spots on shell or skin
Open-mouth breathing Frantic swimming
Abnormal feces Sneezing, runny nose

Aquatic Turtle
Includes African side-necked, map, painted, and softshell
Active and alert Eats regularly
Healthy shell Clear, bright eyes
Healthy skin Clear nose and vent

Health Issue (alpha) Symptoms or Causes Suggested Action
Fungus A white fuzzy growth caused from a
reaction to the water.
Keep water clean; add
aquarium salt. Consult your
exotic animal veterinarian.
Respiratory Disease Labored breathing or runny nose.
Can be caused by cold, damp
habitat, or incompatibility with
another species.
Ensure habitat is
appropriately warm. Consult
your exotic animal
veterinarian.
Shell Rot/Ulcers Lesions on the shell caused by an
unclean habitat or improper diet;
can become infected.
Daily cleanings; diet changes;
antibiotics. Consult your
exotic animal veterinarian.
Swollen Eyes Vitamin A deficiency; infection. Give a vitamin supplement.
Consult your veterinarian.