How can I get my baby RES to eat? I've tried dried shrimp, but I haven't observed any eating; I'm really concerned he'll starve.
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Not eating
leftie
Oct 15, 2003 10:26 PM
Replies (3)
turtlesong
Oct 15, 2003 10:54 PM
Try some raw meat, like hamburger or beef(No chicken or pork.)
Make sure the water is warm enough for it.
Try fish or worms, too.
Anita
Oct 16, 2003 10:28 AM
The water should be at least 80 degrees. Maybe even 85 if the turtle is sick. Have a warmer basking spot. You can try the hamburger or beef I guess but remember those kinds of meats should not be part of a normal diet. An occasional snack of them would be OK. Meat like those including chicken and pork without the bones are very calcium deficient. Live foods like earth worms may temp him. After uping the temp if he still doesn't eat within a few days, get him to a qualified turtle vet ASAP. Don't let him go not eating very long. If he is sick, not eating is one of the last signs before a turtle dies. I know newly hatched RES's may take a while to begin eating but I'm assuming this isn't a newly hatched baby. Here's is a link you may find helpful also concerning care.
GCTTS Care Sheets, etc.
turtlequest
Oct 16, 2003 06:43 PM
When i first got my baby res's...they didnt eat for like a week. They first need to get used to their new enviroment, then then need the right food to trigger them into eating. The first thing one of my turtles ate was tuna fish...then the other turtle first ate meal worms.
but they will eat when they are good and ready.
