How to Properly Care for Red Ear Slider Turtles

Red-eared sliders are popular pets when it comes to turtles, but they have a number of requirements that must be met in order for them to live long and healthy lives. In the wild, these turtles are native to the eastern half of the United States, but recreating a healthy environment for these creatures indoors can be something of a challenge. Proper handling is also key, and although they are often kept as pets, these turtles should not be treated like other small animals.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Water heater
  • Filtration unit
  • Fresh water
  • Rocks
  • Turtle diet
  • Feeder worms and fish
  • Vegetables
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Set up a proper habitat for the turtle. This should be done before the pet is even brought home so there is somewhere to put it immediately. A glass aquarium can make an excellent turtle habitat, and should at minimum be a 30-gallon tank. There needs to be both deep water and a dry place for the turtle to sun itself. A water filter will help with the monumental task of keeping the water clean, and a heater is necessary for keeping that water at the right temperature -- between 75 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. A light that gives off ultraviolet B rays is not necessary but can be beneficial, especially if the tank is situated away from windows.

    • 2

      Learn how to handle the turtle properly. When picking up the turtle, always use both hands and support the turtle from underneath. Be sure to allow the turtle to put its feet on your hands instead of just holding the shell; this will reduce the stress the turtle feels at being picked up.

    • 3

      Offer fresh food every day, and be sure to remove any pieces of uneaten food before it falls into the water. Roughly a quarter of the turtle's diet can consist of a commercial turtle food available at any pet store; while this will provide a good basis for nutrition, it should also be supplemented by live feeder fish and worms. There should also be fresh vegetables and greens offered every day.

    • 4

      Keep the habitat clean. This means not only removing uneaten food, but keeping the water clear. Depending on the size of the tank and the quality of the filter, this can mean replacing as much as half of the water on a weekly basis. When adding fresh water, be sure that it is the right temperature for the turtle.

    • 5

      Offer vitamin supplements. This can be in the form of vitamins or calcium blocks designed specifically for reptiles. Keep in mind that turtles need more calcium than their average diet provides.

    • 6

      Wash your hands before handling the turtle or anything that will go into the aquarium, especially food. This will help prevent bacteria from spreading to the turtle, while washing your hands after handling the turtle will prevent the spread of any germs that may be on the creature.

    • 7

      Take the turtle for regular veterinary checkups, and be sure to have a veterinarian available in case the turtle shows signs of being ill.