How to Live With Tortoises

Tortoises can make loving and rewarding pets as long as they have a family that's ready to accommodate their needs and lifestyle. These reptiles love to wander and graze, and they also have a knack for escaping enclosures. When living with a tortoise, an owner must provide a habitat for the pet, constantly keep an eye on it and handle it with care.

Things You'll Need

  • Cage
  • Shredded paper
  • UVB lighting
  • Rocks and logs
  • Adequate fencing
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Instructions

    • 1

      Create a habitat for your tortoise inside your home. When choosing a cage, ensure it has as much floor space as possible. The more room, the better. Also, use logs and rocks to provide climbing obstacles for the pet to keep it active. Provide shelter for the animal and line the bottom of the cage with shredded paper where it can hide and sleep. Always ensure it has enough food and water. Keep in mind that tortoises have a strong will to escape, so make sure the habitat has high walls. Also, avoid using a glass aquarium as the tortoise will see the rest of the room and want to get out.

    • 2

      Ensure your tortoise gets enough light to help the animal heat its body and function properly. Provide a UVB light over part of the animal's habitat while also leaving a spot for the tortoise to cool.

    • 3

      Allow your tortoise to roam outside in the yard. This will satisfy the animal's urge to explore and also provide exercise. Check the fencing to make sure the animal can't dig under it and escape. Attach slate or wire down the existing fence line as added protection against a breakout. Make sure there are no pools or ponds more than 1/2-inch deep where the animal could drown. Keep others pets, especially dogs and large birds, away from the tortoise because they might be tempted to hunt it.

    • 4

      Always know where your tortoise is. If it is roaming the yard, keep an eye on it to make sure it's not escaping or underfoot. Never mow the lawn when the tortoise is roaming.

    • 5

      Be careful when handling the tortoise. The animal could be injured or killed if dropped.