Turtle Care Basics: A Happy, Healthy Pet Turtle

Turtles are curious, full of character and fun to watch. They’re also a long-term commitment — with good care, many pet turtles live for 20 years or more and grow much bigger than the tiny hatchlings you see in shops. Here’s how to set them up for a long, healthy life.

1. Space to grow

A baby turtle can start in a smaller tank, but it will outgrow it. Plan for the adult size from day one.

• As a rough guide, allow about 10 gallons (around 40 litres) of water for every inch of shell length.
• Water should be deep enough for the turtle to swim and flip over — at least 1.5–2 times its shell length.
• A secure lid or high sides stops escapes.

2. A dry basking area — non-negotiable

Turtles need to climb completely out of the water to dry off and warm up. Without a basking spot, they can develop shell and health problems.

• Add a basking dock or platform that the turtle can easily climb onto.
• Place a basking lamp above it so the spot is noticeably warmer than the water.

3. Light and warmth

• UVB light: turtles need UVB to use calcium properly and grow a strong shell. Use a UVB bulb made for reptiles and replace it as the manufacturer recommends — it stops producing UVB long before it stops glowing.
• Day and night: keep lights on for around 10–12 hours a day.
• Water temperature: most pet turtles are comfortable around 24–28°C. An aquarium heater helps through cooler Pune winters.

4. Clean water (turtles are messy!)

Turtles eat and produce a lot of waste, so water gets dirty quickly.

• Use a filter rated for a much bigger tank than yours — turtle tanks need strong filtration.
• Change part of the water every week, and do a thorough clean regularly.
• Always treat tap water with a water conditioner.

5. A balanced diet

• Turtle pellets as the main food.
• Leafy greens — young turtles eat more protein, while adults enjoy more greens.
• Occasional treats like small insects or shrimp, in moderation.
• Feed young turtles daily and adults every other day — only what they can eat in a few minutes.

Tip: Feeding your turtle in a separate tub keeps its main tank much cleaner.

6. Handling and hygiene

Like many reptiles, turtles can carry salmonella bacteria.

• Wash your hands with soap after handling your turtle or anything in its tank.
• Supervise young children and don’t let them put turtles near their faces.
• Clean the tank equipment away from the kitchen sink.

7. A lifelong friend — never release it

If you ever can’t keep your turtle, please don’t release it into a lake, river or pond. Pet turtles can’t survive safely in the wild and can harm local wildlife. Talk to us and we’ll help you find a responsible option.

Setting up for a turtle?

We stock turtle food, basking docks and accessories — and we can build a proper turtle setup with the right space, filtration and basking area. Send us a WhatsApp message or drop by the store and we’ll help you get it right.