10 Things Every Turtle Keeper Needs

Caring for a pet turtle is a true delight, but it's also a considerable commitment. Remember, turtles can live for decades! If you're thinking about becoming a turtle keeper (or you already are), here are 10 items — some essential, some just fun — that you want to consider having on hand.

Things for Your Turtle

1. The right kind of light

Pet turtles benefit from a few hours of natural sunlight a day, but if their habitat is located in the house, you need to supplement with artificial lighting designed especially for reptiles. And it's not just light for your turtle to see by. A turtle needs lighting that supplies important UV rays to help with certain biological functions, create vitamin D3 for healthy bones, and process calcium.

2. A place to bask

Turtles are ectotherms (the casual term is cold-blooded), so their body temperatures are somewhat dependent on the temperature of their environment. Turtles need a place to warm up when they get a little chilled, and you can supply them with a dedicated and decorative basking platform to use under a heat source, the same way they would bask on a rock by a pond in nature.

3. A bit of shade

By the same token, your pet turtle will appreciate a shady spot to go under to get away from the light or warmth, particularly if your turtle's habitat is located in a place that sometimes receives sunlight. Again, you can combine form and function and use the shade as an opportunity to add some fun décor to the habitat.

Things for Turtle Habitat Hygiene

4. A water filter

A water filter is not the most exciting tool in your turtle-keeping toolbox, but it is important. Turtles (unlike tortoises) are at least semi-aquatic and require a multi-gallon aquarium for proper health and happiness. The upside is that you get to enjoy watching your turtle swim. The downside is that water will naturally become tainted over time, so a filter system that removes waste from the water is essential. For aquariums larger than 40 gallons, a canister filter is a good choice.

5. Water conditioner

Municipal water sources often have a dash of chlorine or chloramine, but you can add a water conditioner to your turtle's tank to help neutralize these chemicals. There's no reason for your pet turtle to have irritated eyes from the chlorine. You can also try a beneficial bacteria water supplement for weekly tank hygiene.

6. Vinyl gloves

Your water filter and conditioner are important, but regular cleanings of the tank and habitat are still necessary. Also, you need to handle your turtle occasionally, and turtles can be a potential source of disease. Have a package of vinyl/latex gloves on hand to keep you clean while you keep your turtle's house clean.

Things for Your Pet Turtle's Health

7. Access to a veterinarian

Find a veterinarian with experience treating reptiles (not all veterinarians care for them). The time to do this is certainly not when you suspect your pet turtle is ill. Establish a relationship with a turtle-focused veterinarian early in your turtle adventure. You can find a veterinarian near you through the Association of Reptile and Amphibian Veterinarians.

8. A toothbrush

For his teeth? Nope! Turtles don't have teeth, just rigid beak-like mouths. The toothbrush, in this case, is to occasionally give their shell a light scrubbing. You won't need to do these "baths" often, just whenever you start to see a bit of debris or algae on the shell. Don't scrub too hard! These little baths can also give you a chance to examine your pet for any health issues.

Things for Fun with Your Turtle

9. A macro adapter for your phone

As you build your bond with your turtle, you're going to want to capture these fun memories to share with friends and family. But turtles are often small, and phone cameras aren't always able to focus closely enough to generate a quality face portrait. You can easily and inexpensively remedy this with a simple macro (close-up) adapter lens to make your reptile pet the star of your photos.

10. Fun treats

Many turtles enjoy a treat or two in the form of a piece of fresh veggie or fruit. And giving your turtle treats is a great way to build your bond. A few possibilities for treats could include:

  • Summer squash (zucchini or yellow straightneck)

  • Dandelions

  • Sweet potato (small pieces, no regular potatoes)

  • Peaches

  • Raspberries

  • Kale, collard greens, mustard greens

  • Carrots

  • Green beans

  • Floating treats

Keep in mind that different types of pet turtles may have specific treat requirements, so double-check a list of appropriate treats for your species of turtle before feeding.

Remember to Enjoy Your Turtle!

Part of the fun of any hobby is the equipment, and it's the same for turtle-keeping. A few hours of shopping will get you ready for years of fun with your turtle and will make you an even better turtle keeper.

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