How Do You Feed a Turtle on Vacation?

By Anna Duncan

Going on vacation is always exciting, but if you’re a turtle owner, it can also be a source of worry. Who will take care of your pet while you’re away?

One of the main concerns is feeding your turtle. You don’t want to overfeed it before you leave and risk it becoming overweight, and you also don’t want to leave it without food for too long. So, how do you feed a turtle on vacation?

Plan Ahead

The first step is to plan ahead. This means figuring out how long you will be away and how many meals your turtle will need during that time. Typically, turtles need to be fed once a day, so if you’re going away for a week, you will need seven meals.

Automatic Feeders

One option is to use an automatic feeder. These feeders can dispense food at set intervals, so your turtle can continue to eat even when you’re not home.

However, not all automatic feeders are suitable for turtles. Some may dispense too much food at once or may not be able to handle the type of food your turtle eats.

Types of Food

Speaking of food, it’s important to consider what type of food your turtle eats when planning for its meals while you’re away. Turtles are omnivores and eat a variety of foods including vegetables, fruits, and protein sources such as insects or fish.

  • If your turtle primarily eats vegetables and fruits, consider leaving pre-cut portions in the refrigerator or freezer for the person taking care of it to give as needed.
  • If your turtle eats insects or fish as its main source of protein, consider buying freeze-dried options that can be stored easily and given as needed.
  • Another option is to invest in pellet food which can last longer than fresh food and can be dispensed through an automatic feeder.

Preparing for Your Absence

Before you leave, make sure to properly prepare for your turtle’s care. This means leaving detailed instructions for the person taking care of it, including how much food to give, when to give it, and any other special instructions. You may also want to consider leaving a backup supply of food in case the original runs out.

In Conclusion

Feeding a turtle on vacation doesn’t have to be stressful. With some planning ahead and the right tools, you can ensure your pet is well-fed even when you’re not home.

Consider automatic feeders if appropriate, prepare pre-cut portions of food for fresh diets or invest in pellet food that can last longer than fresh foods. Don’t forget to leave detailed instructions for the caretaker and backup supplies of food. Bon voyage!