Turtles make fantastic pets, given that these beautiful reptilian creatures are low maintenance when it comes to upkeep. Naturally, every creature needs love and care.
Yet, turtles are the kind of aquatic animals that have existed for centuries.
And, most species of turtles are omnivores that can live in most environments with relative ease.
Yet, many new pet parents often worry over their diet, wondering if turtles can eat watermelons and other fruits.
So if you are wondering
Can turtles eat watermelons?
The answer to this is..
Yes, turtles can eat watermelons. Many pet parents vouch that their pet turtle relishes on a juicy piece of watermelon, unlike any other treat.
So, let’s take a look at some of the things that your turtle can eat, the health benefits of feeding your turtle watermelons, and what are some of the food items that ought never to be offered to your adorable pet.
In this article you’re going to discover
- Can you feed your turtle watermelons?
- The benefits of watermelon for your turtle?
- How to feed watermelon to your turtle?
- What you shouldn’t feed your turtle
If you want to know everything about watermelons and feeding your turtle then you’re going to love this article!
Sound good?
Let’s get started!
Can I Feed My Turtle Watermelons?
According to Veterinary Centers Of America Hospital, turtles should have more of a plant-based diet than a fruit-based diet.
Excessive sugar intake can cause health issues in turtles in the long run.
In short, the primary diet of your turtle ought to be A-grade pellet food for turtles and fish feeder along with leafy vegetables like lettuce or collard greens.
Yet, some crisp and cool pieces of seedless watermelon can make a healthy treat too. I mean who doesn’t love watermelon? I love them!
You see, turtles enjoy sweet treats much like humans.
Since high sugar and sodium-based human foods are a no-no for turtles, the only way to ensure they have ample variety in their meals is to include fruits.
And, watermelons seem to be a general favorite when it comes to turtles.
It’s a good little treat you can give your little reptile friend
Now that we know we can feed watermelons to turtles
What are the benefits?
I’m sure you’d love to know
Carry on reading to find out..
Benefits Of Watermelon To Your Turtle
As for the nutritional content of watermelon, it holds many healthy perks for your pet.
Watermelons are low in calories yet feel very filling.
Also, it is great for hydration.
Therefore, on a hot summer’s day, a couple of bites of watermelon will work wonders on refreshing your little buddy.
The watermelon is a fruit with plant compounds such as lycopene and cucurbitacin E that can help reduce cancer risk in the digestive tract and inhibit tumor growth.
Not to mention, lycopene is known to reduce the risk of heart problems as well.
Watermelon has plenty of Vitamin C, A, B1, B5, and B6. A
nd vitamins aren’t just excellent for good vision and skin; Vitamin C prevents cell damage too.
For your pet turtle, fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamin A and C help improve mucous membrane, reproduction, and biochemical functions.
And, the antioxidants present in this delightful fruit can lower inflammation and stress oxidation.
Moreover, properties found in watermelons can be beneficial for brain health.
So, just a few nibbles of watermelon as a treat can make your pet into a healthier and happier turtle.
As you can see there are plenty of benefits for your turtle – It’s pretty awesome right?
Want to know how you can feed your turtle watermelons?
How To Feed Watermelon To Your Turtle?
It’s a smart move to go for organically grown watermelons that are free of chemicals and toxins.
And, it would be best if you made sure that you still give the fruit a thorough washing before removing the rinds and seeds.
And, if you want to make your turtle’s life easier, then dice up the watermelon before you offer some to your cute companion.
Another aspect that you ought to bear in mind is that watermelons are high in sugar.
It may be natural, but that’s still not going to do any good to your pet if you overfeed it.
So, keep treats to once a week, never exceeding more than two spoons full.
Or you can mix up a watermelon with other fruits such as papaya, mangoes, or berries and feed that too.
What Should You Not Feed Turtles?
Now, it’s smart to learn what you can feed your pet so that your cooter can enjoy life to the fullest.
But, it’s even smarter to learn about the food items that are toxic for your pet so that you can be sure never to expose your turtle to anything that may endanger its life.
Foods To Avoid Feeding Your Turtle
Dairy: Turtle do not possess the enzymes necessary to break down and digest dairy product such as cheese, yogurt, and butter
Sugar: Processed sugar, chocolates, or corn syrup are items that have severe detrimental effects on your little pet’s digestive system as well as overall health.
Salty Foods: Any human food with sodium is bad for your turtle as turtles aren’t exposed to salt in their natural environments. Even sea turtles have large glands in their eyes to get rid of excess salt in their bodies. So, keep salt away from the freshwater turtles to keep your pet healthier for longer.
Final Words
Turtles may not be high maintenance, but they do bring joy and smiles to the lives of their pet parents.
Keeping your pet healthy, safe and happy then becomes your responsibility.
So, when it comes to your turtle’s diet, do make it a point to understand their needs and their wants.
A healthy turtle gets what it needs from its pet guardians.
But, a happy turtle has a pet parent who makes it a point to offer not the primary source of food such as pellet food.
But also attempts to find out what makes for a healthy treat for their pets.
And what better than watermelons
They are refreshing and bring about many benefits
Make sure you do not overfeed them
Give it to your turtle as a treat
They would love it – Especially on a hot summers day!
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