How to feed Burmese tortoises
The Burmese tortoise is a popular pet turtle loved for its docile temperament and unique appearance. However, many breeders often encounter confusion when feeding Burmese tortoises. This article will introduce in detail the feeding methods of Burmese tortoises, including food selection, feeding frequency and precautions, to help you take care of your pet scientifically and reasonably.
1. Food choices for Burmese tortoises

Burmese tortoises are omnivorous, but mainly feed on plant foods. The following are the main food categories of Burmese tortoises:
| food type | specific food | Feeding ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Spinach, rape, carrot, pumpkin | 60% |
| Fruits | Apple, banana, strawberry, watermelon | 20% |
| protein | Hard-boiled eggs, lean meat, insects | 10% |
| Others | Turtle food, calcium supplements | 10% |
2. Feeding frequency and amount
Feeding frequency and amount for Burmese tortoises should be adjusted based on their age and size. The following are feeding recommendations for Burmese tortoises of different ages:
| age group | Feeding frequency | Feeding amount per time |
|---|---|---|
| Baby turtle (0-1 years old) | 1-2 times a day | 5%-10% of body weight |
| Subadult (1-3 years old) | 1 time a day | 3%-5% of body weight |
| Adult (over 3 years old) | Once every 2 days | 2%-3% of body weight |
3. Feeding precautions
1.Food diversity: Burmese tortoises need a variety of food to ensure nutritional balance and avoid feeding a single food for a long time.
2.Avoid foods high in sugar and fat: Although Burmese tortoises enjoy eating fruit, excessive consumption of high-sugar fruits may lead to obesity and digestive problems.
3.Calcium supplement: Burmese tortoises need sufficient calcium to maintain shell health. Calcium powder can be added to the food or cuttlefish bones can be provided.
4.clean water: Burmese tortoises need a clean water source to drink at any time, and the water in the water basin should be changed regularly.
5.Observe defecation: By observing the bowel movements of Burmese tortoises, you can determine whether their digestion is normal. If diarrhea or constipation occurs, your diet should be adjusted in time.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Burmese tortoises eat meat?
A: Yes, but in small amounts. Burmese tortoises are omnivores and can occasionally be fed cooked lean meat or insects, but not too much to avoid increasing the burden on the kidneys.
Q: Do Burmese tortoises need to be fed turtle food?
A: Turtle food can be used as supplementary food, but it cannot completely replace natural food. It is recommended to mainly eat fresh vegetables and fruits, supplemented by turtle food.
Q: What should I do if my Burmese tortoise doesn’t eat?
A: If a Burmese tortoise suddenly refuses to eat, it may be caused by environmental stress, temperature discomfort or health problems. The breeding environment should be checked to ensure the temperature is appropriate and observed for other abnormal symptoms. If food refusal persists, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
5. Summary
Feeding Burmese tortoises is not complicated, but requires patient and careful observation and adjustment by the breeder. By providing a variety of food, reasonable feeding frequency and amounts, and paying attention to calcium supplements and clean water sources, your Burmese tortoise is sure to grow up healthily. Hopefully this article will provide you with practical feeding guidelines so you can spend quality time with your pet turtle.
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