Reptile & Amphibian Forums

We got a western painted turtle in January.
He has always been a good eater. We fed him
reptomin on the advice of the pet shop. We
would feed him 10 sticks a day, which he gobbled
right up. He would eat more if we let him.
Then, in mid-July, he started eating less,
eventually going off of the reptomin altogether.
The pet store suggested trying different foods.
His appetite will revive a bit when we offer
something new, but he's generally eating much
less than before. We won't eat anything green.
Cooked bluefish seems to be the best. We haven't
tried live food.
He seems generally active and happy other than
the change in his eating habits.

Should I be worried?
How much should he eat (he's maybe 5 inches)?
How can I make sure he's getting a balanced diet?

I would stop feeding every day. At this size he should be
eating only every other day at the most.

I feed mine every other day but change it at each feeding.
For example, I will give them Reptomin say on Monday. Then
on Wednesday I might give them some fruit or plant material.
Anarcharis is great and they sell this at places like Petco,
etc. Then on Friday they might get soaked cat food (low calorie)
or shrimp. I feed mine pretty much what I have on hand but
in small amounts so they don't get bored. If your turt is
acting fine I would not worry to much. But do try to vary his
diet with Reptomin included. I have used the Reptomin as
their staple diet and have had great results. Also try some
romaine, mustard or collard greens. I have this on hand because
I have a tortoise and Iguana as well and mine seem to enjoy it
once in a while.

Hope this helps.