Why does my Russian tortoise not eat?

Temperature: One of the most common reasons for pet tortoises losing their appetite is that their surroundings are too cold. The trend today is to keep young hatchlings on open tortoise tables, rather than in enclosed vivariums where the ventilation is more restricted and the temperature is higher.

Why do you have to starve your tortoise?

Adult tortoises can be fed every day but it is recommended to give them a starve day twice a week. A starve day is a day without food and this allows time for the tortoise to digest as it has a slow digestive systems.

How do I know if my tortoise is malnourished?

Shell Softening African spurred tortoises should have a hard shell and walk without dragging the lower shell on the ground. A soft shell is a common sign of malnutrition and is usually caused by too little calcium or too much phosphorus in the diet.

What are the dietary habits of a Russian tortoise?

Russian Tortoises are vigorous eaters and will eat continuously in the months leading up to summer to prepare for hibernation. In the wild they are herbivores and eat grass, leafy vegetables, weeds, and flowers. So in captivity they should be fed a diet mainly consisting of greens: Collards (type of cabbage)

How offten should my Russian tortoise eat?

Sulcata tortoises need to eat every day, they require space to graze on for about 20 minutes per day. It is important for the bulk of the Russian tortoise’s diet to consist of dark leafy greens. These greens include Romain lettuce, kale and carrot tops.

What foods a tortoise can and cannot eat?

Tortoise Food List – What They Can and Can’t Eat Legumes and grains. All legumes and grains are prohibited food for turtles such as beans, corn, rice, pea pods, lentils, chickpeas and others. Vegetables. Despite the necessities of feeding vegetables to your tortoise, there are some which you will need to avoid altogether. Fruit. Mushrooms. Sugar. Dog food and cat food. Animal products.

How often should I Feed my Russian tortoise?

Things to remember when feeding your Russian tortoise: Fresh, clean, chlorine free water should be available at all times. Feed tortoises daily; finely chop vegetables. Sprinkle food with calcium supplement once or twice a week once tortoise is 6 months of age. Discard food not eaten within 24 hours.