Diet for Painted Turtles

Painted turtles can live up to 20 years if cared for properly. Feeding a painted turtle the right food will maintain its health. Variety is the key to a balanced diet. Painted turtles are aquatic and drink the water they swim in. Make sure to change the water frequently and keep it chlorine-free.
  1. When to Feed Painted Turtles

    • Young or juvenile turtles need to eat daily for proper maintenance. Once the turtle matures, you only need to feed it every other day. Allow 30 to 45 minutes for feeding. When time is up, remove live food or meat. Greens can remain in the tank, but dispose of them when they wilt.

    What to Feed Painted Turtles

    • Painted turtles need variety. Live food, such as mealworms, bloodworms, small feeder fish and crickets are an important part of their diet. Turtle pellets and other commercial turtle food can augment this diet but should not be used alone. Calcium and vitamins specific to reptiles are important for their bones and shells. Dark, leafy greens are an excellent source of vitamins. Examples include spinach leaves and collard greens.

      Balancing the turtle's diet with meat, pellets, greens and vitamins will keep the animal healthy.