Foods at Home That Small Turtles Can Eat

Turtles are like any other animal on this planet in that they need a healthy, balanced diet rich in nutrients to lead a quality life. As omnivores, turtles are exactly like humans in that they can eat a wide variety of plant and animal products to receive the necessary nutrition, which means it is fairly easy to feed small turtles when you keep them as pets.

  1. Vegetables

    • Vegetables such as squash, peas, green beans, okra and sweet potatoes, as well as beets, beans and corn are all important for turtles not only because of the vitamins and minerals they provide, but also for the trace amounts of calcium that are found within. Calcium is important for turtles, and in their natural environment, they chew on bones to get it, so it is important to ensure they are getting plenty of calcium for optimum health.

    Fruits

    • Any types of fruit are fine for turtles, just as they are for humans. Not only do they provide natural fiber as well as plenty of vitamins and minerals, but some fruits such as berries are high in antioxidants, which are just as important for turtles as they are for people.

    Greens

    • Greens are vitally important for turtles, not only because of the protein found in them, but also because of the calcium and the phosphorus, which all turtles need. Things such as broccoli, cabbage, alfalfa sprouts or grape leaves are ideal, as well as kale and kelp if you happen to have it around the house. Dandelion and carrot tops are also good.

    Animals and Insects

    • While turtles can eat cooked meat just like humans, and from time to time it's a good idea to feed them meat for the protein and B12, turtles also naturally consume insects and other creatures such as worms in their natural habitat. While you might not always have spare crickets laying around the house, boiled eggs, fish, chicken, turkey and beef are fine, as long as the beef is lean. Cooking is optional, as they eat it raw naturally in the wild.