How to Care for a Tortoise: Complete Beginner’s Guide

Caring for a tortoise is incredibly rewarding, and with proper attention to habitat, diet, hydration, and lighting, these gentle reptiles can live for decades—sometimes over 100 years. Tortoises make excellent pets for beginners because they are quiet, low-odor, and easygoing once their environment is set up correctly. Whether you own a Russian, Sulcata, Greek, Hermann’s, or Leopard tortoise, the fundamentals of good tortoise care remain the same.

Habitat and Cleanliness

A proper habitat is one of the most important aspects of tortoise care. Indoor enclosures should measure at least 4x2 feet, though larger is always better. The best substrates include organic soil, coconut coir, and cypress mulch, all of which help maintain humidity and allow natural digging behaviors. Avoid substrates such as sand, gravel, or wood chips because they can cause impaction or respiratory issues. Your enclosure should offer a warm basking area, a cooler resting zone, and hiding spots that mimic the tortoise’s natural environment. A healthy temperature gradient is essential: the basking area should stay between 90–100°F, while the cool side of the enclosure should remain between 70–80°F. These temperature variations help regulate digestion and overall health.

Cleanliness is another key factor in tortoise care. The enclosure should be spot-cleaned daily to remove droppings and uneaten food. Food and water dishes need daily washing, and the entire substrate should be replaced every four to six weeks. Monthly cleaning of décor and enclosure surfaces helps prevent bacterial buildup and keeps your tortoise’s home safe.

Temperature and Lighting

Tortoises also rely heavily on proper lighting. UVB light allows them to metabolize calcium, build a strong shell, and maintain a functioning immune system. A 10.0 UVB bulb (preferably a T5HO tube) should run for 10–12 hours per day and be replaced every 6–12 months since the UV output weakens over time even if the bulb still looks bright. Pairing UVB with a basking heat lamp creates the ideal day-time environment. Without correct lighting, tortoises can develop metabolic bone disease, soft shell syndrome, and chronic appetite issues.

Diet and Nurtition

Diet plays another crucial role in keeping a tortoise healthy. Most species thrive on a high-fiber, leafy-green-based diet that includes dandelion greens, collard greens, mustard greens, endive, escarole, and turnip greens. Grazing species like Sulcatas also benefit from access to timothy hay. Avoid foods like spinach, iceberg lettuce, fruit (for most species), or any high-protein items such as dog or cat food. These foods can cause long-term digestive and kidney problems. Adding a calcium supplement a few times per week helps support strong shell development, especially in young tortoises.

Hydration often gets overlooked, but it is essential. Even desert tortoise species require regular access to clean, fresh water. Shallow water dishes should be provided and refreshed daily. Baby tortoises should be soaked in warm water two to three times per week, while adult tortoises typically need one to two soaks per week depending on species and climate. Routine soaking helps with hydration, digestion, and shedding.

Interaction and Handling

When it comes to handling, tortoises generally prefer minimal interaction. They can become stressed if picked up too frequently. If handling is necessary, it should be slow and gentle, supporting the legs and underside of the shell. Avoid sudden movements or flipping them over, as this can cause fear and disorientation.

Health

Monitoring your tortoise’s health is essential for early intervention. Signs of illness include swollen or closed eyes, a soft or misshapen shell, wheezing, nasal discharge, lack of appetite, unusual lethargy, or dramatic behavioral changes. If you notice any of these symptoms, contacting a reptile veterinarian promptly can prevent more serious issues.

By giving your tortoise the right environment, consistent UVB lighting, a balanced diet, proper hydration, and regular maintenance, you ensure they enjoy a long, healthy, and active life. This beginner-friendly tortoise care guide provides everything you need to start confidently and help your tortoise thrive.