Turtles are among the most ancient creatures living on earth today. They are over 200 million years old. Many people give birth to these animals, thinking that they are unpretentious and do not require special care. However, it is not.
Instructions
Step 1
The turtle should be in a special fenced off place - an aquarium, at the bottom of which it is better to put a thick layer of special filler or paper. The aquarium must be heated and illuminated by a lamp. During the day, the turtle loves to bask under the lamp, which gives it an appetite. In winter, a lamp is a must.
Step 2
The turtle must always have water in the drinker. The bowls should not be very deep, as land creatures can choke.
Step 3
The presence of calcium in the diet is extremely important for the health of the turtle. It is necessary for the strength and proper development of the shell. Buy calcium from a pet store. Give it strictly according to the instructions, adherence to the dose is extremely important.
Step 4
Take care of your shell. In the summer, rub it with a cotton pad with vegetable oil. This will not only improve its appearance, but also become a protection if it falls under the rain in the summer at the dacha. The oil will keep the shell from getting wet.
Step 5
Be sure to keep an eye on the turtle's appetite in the house. If she is medium in size, while having excellent health, then she should eat about half a head of salad or the same amount of other plant foods per day. If your turtle does not eat or eats very little, take it to your veterinarian. It is best if you regularly weigh the turtle and write down the data in a notebook.
Step 6
In winter, turtles, like many other animals, go into suspended animation. During hibernation, vital processes slow down, the pulse becomes rare, and other metabolic processes freeze. Usually hibernation depends on the weather. If good warm weather lasts for a long time, then the turtle may not sleep until October, but usually they go to winter in September.
Step 7
When you notice that your turtle is about to hibernate, it should be placed in a winter container. It could be a cardboard or wooden box with a lot of sawdust or shavings in which the creature will burrow. This box should be placed in a larger box containing thermal insulation material such as newspapers, styrofoam or peat.
Step 8
Store the winter container in a dark and cool (not cold) place at a constant temperature. Check it no more than once a week.
Step 9
In the spring, when the turtle wakes up, it requires increased attention. At first, the pet is rather sluggish, without much appetite, so offer several types of her favorite food for her to choose. Add vitamins to the water.
