Feeding and Nutrition :: My turtle seemed to have stopped eating. Help!

[tartolz]

When I first got my pet RES three months ago he promptly ate his pellets (three times a day, four small pieces per meal). He seemed to have a healthy appetite back then, but recently I've noticed that he's not eating his food. I'm not sure, because he may eat a piece here and there, but I notice that there's a lot of left over/crushed pellets. He used to eat them the moment the pellets hit the tank.

He's still relatively healthy, though. He's basking from time to time every day, I've checked for signs of disease but can't find any (he's got a good shell, good eyes and most of all he's still feisty as ever).

He's just not eating as much as he used to. Help?

;_;

[steve]

Any change in water temperature? They can get bored of the same foods, it doesn't hurt to rotate different pellets and vegetables.

There are some tips here: http://www.redearslider.com/entice_eating.html

[tartolz]

I live in the tropics (Philippines, ftw) and the rainy season just started. For those who aren't familiar with tropical weather, there's really no drastic drop in temperature once the rainy season begins, but the water does get just a bit colder, though not refrigerator-type of cool.

I was thinking that the (very) slight drop of temperature may have been the culprit, but I really didn't take it seriously. Now that you mention it, I'll try warming the water just a bit.

And yes, he's also been eating the same kind of pellets ever since I got him. I tried introducing another type of pellet at some point, but for some reason he didn't like it and just ignored it when they're floating around the water. I'll try to get another brand then, and soak them in canned tuna brine just like what is indicated in the link.

Anyway, you guys are helpful. Thanks!

[ScrewZoo]

Get a temperature gage so you can make sure your turtles temp is at 78. And make sure you have a heater.

[marisa]

Seasonal changes can affect appetite as well.

You don't need to feed him pellets 3X a day---once is enough if he's a hatchling. For the amount, use his head size as a guide (don't include the neck) and give him an amount that would fit into it (be conservative). Include other foods as well for variety.

[TurtleLover_S&B]

Well,as they get older they don't eat as much for some reason,or they're not as eager to eat,but changes of the season can affect them.