Everything You Need to Know Before Getting a Pet Tortoise

Tortoises are fascinating, long-lived reptiles that can make rewarding pets for the right person.
However, they require specific care, a long-term commitment, and a solid understanding of their needs.
If you're considering bringing a tortoise into your home, here's everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Table of contents
1. Understand the commitment
Tortoises are not short-term pets. Depending on the species, a tortoise can live 40 to over 100 years, often outliving their owners.
This means you're not just adopting a pet, you're potentially committing to a multi-generational family member.
2. Choose the right species
There are many species of tortoises, each with different size, dietary, climate, and habitat needs. Some of the most popular pet tortoises include:
- Russian Tortoise: Small (5–8 inches), hardy, great for beginners.
- Greek Tortoise: Friendly and manageable in size.
- Sulcata Tortoise: One of the largest species, can grow over 100 lbs — not suitable for small spaces.
- Leopard Tortoise: Medium-large, beautiful patterns, needs warm environments.
Make sure you do your research thoroughly!
3. Legal considerations
Some tortoise species are protected by law and may require permits to own. Import restrictions, breeding laws, and conservation statuses vary by country or state. Always buy from a reputable breeder or opt to rescue.
4. Space and housing requirements
Tortoises need ample space to roam, forage, and bask. Keeping them in a small tank or glass terrarium is a common mistake.
Instead, consider:
- Indoor enclosures: Large wooden tortoise tables with UV lighting.
- Outdoor pens (for suitable climates): Secure, escape-proof, with access to shade and sun.
- Heating & UVB: Most tortoises require UVB lighting for bone health and heating lamps to regulate body temperature.
5. Diet and nutrition
Tortoises are herbivores, but their diet can vary slightly by species. In general:
- Feed dark leafy greens (e.g., collards, dandelion, mustard greens).
- Avoid overfeeding fruits; high sugar can disrupt digestion.
- Offer calcium supplements to prevent shell deformities.
- Always provide clean water for drinking and soaking.
Avoid commercial tortoise pellets unless they’re recommended to you by a vet.
6. Regular veterinary care
Tortoises are prone to issues such as:
- Respiratory infections (from poor humidity/temperature control)
- Shell rot
- Parasites
- Metabolic bone disease (from lack of UVB)
Find an exotics or reptile vet in your area and schedule annual check-ups.
7. Hibernation
Some tortoise species naturally hibernate in cooler months.
This requires:
- Controlled temperature reduction
- Safe hibernation set-up
- Vet check to ensure the tortoise is healthy enough to hibernate
Improper hibernation can be fatal, so it’s really important to do your research thoroughly.
8. Behavior and handling
Tortoises are generally solitary and slow-paced, not affectionate like dogs or cats.
They:
- Prefer consistency
- Can be stressed by overhandling
- Need mental stimulation (safe toys, natural foraging)
Some tortoises can have strong personalities and even recognize their owners over time.
9. Common mistakes to avoid
- Small enclosures: Tortoises need space.
- Improper diet: Avoid iceberg lettuce and fruit-heavy diets.
- Wrong substrate: Sand can cause impaction; use soil or coconut coir.
- No UVB: Leads to deformities and illness.
Education is key — learn from books, forums, breeders, and experienced keepers.
10. Long-term planning
What happens if:
- You move?
- You can no longer care for the tortoise?
- Your tortoise outlives you?
Consider a care plan or adoption arrangement. Some tortoise owners include their pet in a will!
Final thoughts
A tortoise can be a wonderful companion, but only if you're prepared for the time, effort, and cost.
With the right set-up and mindset, tortoises can thrive and bring decades of quiet joy to your home.
Before you buy, do your homework, visit rescues, and speak to experienced owners. The more you learn now, the happier your future tortoise will be.
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More by Rachel M.