Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I picked up a baby painted turtle 3 days ago from a neglectful previous owner. The previous owner told me that he had not fed the turtle in over 1 month. The turtle is about 2 inches long and has a healthy looking shell, but he has virtually no meat on his bones and not much strength at all. I have tried feeding various fruits and vegetables along with reptomin and nutrifin. The turtle acts like he wants to eat the food, but he will not eat it. The turtle spends most of the day sitting under the heating lamp. When he does swim he appears to swim normally and with energy. Any suggestions???

Try Gut loaded crickets, earthworms, disabled fish-- something that moves, but doesnt get away. I doubt a little extra protein is gonna hurt a malnourished turtle. Protein is what fattens them up anyway. You may also try lean cooked chicken.
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