Austin Veterinarians

Keeping Tortoises

Tortoises are not as easy to take care of like many people think. Many people think that you can simply leave a tortoise out in a garden area, only to throw it some cabbage or lettuce every once in awhile. If you want to be a good tortoise pet owner, however, you need to keep a constant eye on your pet.

Legally, they were not legal for many years, as they can live for a very long time and are exotic creatures. However, today they are legal and can make a very rewarding pet to own. There are several popular species to own including the Mediterranean tortoise and the Mediterranean Spur-Thigh Tortoise. These types of tortoises are usually a little smaller and often do not live the sometime 100 year long lifespan that others.

The best diet comes from a variety of roughage, along with calcium supplements to keep their scales and shells healthy. However, one of the most important aspects of keeping tortoises is the housing that you keep them in. Tortoises can be very antisocial, so if you keep more than one on the same cage, make sure there is enough room for both of them to retreat to their corners.

Come to your Austin Veterinarian Clinic

If you need more information on keep tortoises or how to care for your other animals, contact the Austin vet clinics today!