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My hatchling painted turtle won't eat. What are the best feeding tips?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Reptile | Aquatic Turtle | Male | unneutered

Hi I have a hatchling painted turtle who won't eat anything. Seems interested in earthworms but not flakes, pellets, or pieces of fish. What else can I try? Some people said to soak the turtle in veggie juice? I'm scared he won't make it.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on April 14th, 2019

Check the temperature in the tank. Low temps can affect activity and appetite in reptiles. Water depth should be no deeper than twice the length of the shell. You can offer bits of raw beef heart to stimulate the appetite. Continue to offer chopped greens, pellets and nightcrawlers. You can soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte to maintain hydration. Review painted turtle care at the link below. http://www.reptilesmagazine.com/Care-Sheets/Turtles-Tortoises/Painted-Turtle/

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 14th, 2019

    Thanks for reaching out about Wolfgang. A young aquatic turtle has an internalized yolk sac when hatched that provides nutrients for several days. If older, needs to eat. You can try offering Gerber's meat flavored baby food via a small syringe. Check environmental heat and UVB provisions. Good luck.

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