Plums are juicy, sweet, and vibrant fruits that many of us love to enjoy. Have you ever looked at your pet turtle and wondered if they could share your afternoon snack? Can turtles eat plums, those juicy and colorful fruits? If you didn’t know this answer, then you can add plums to your turtle’s occasional snack.
It’s fascinating to see turtles basking in the sun or exploring their surroundings slowly as a newbie turtle owner. But their diverse diet might surprise you. In this article, we’ll look into the world of turtle treats and explore the question: can turtles eat plums, or are plums a healthy option for our shelled friends?
Can Turtles Eat Plums?
Yes, turtles can eat plums’ juicy treats. Plums offer some nutritional benefits for turtles. They’re full of vitamins A and C, which are essential for healthy eyes and a strong immune system. Also, the fiber content in plums can aid digestion – it can work as a tiny turtle tummy cleanser!
But hold on a sec, don’t go overboard with the plum buffet yet. While plums can be a healthy occasional treat, they shouldn’t be a regular part of your turtle’s diet. Too much sugar can lead to digestive problems, and plums are mostly sugar and water. Keep your turtle happy and healthy with a balanced diet.
Nutritional Table for Plums (Per Medium-Sized Plum, 66g)
From the USDA, here’s some nutrition info about plums.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 30 kcal |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Sodium | 0 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 7.5 g |
| Fiber | 0.9 g |
| Sugars | 6.6 g |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Vitamin C | 6.27 mg |
| Vitamin A | 11.2 mcg |
You will notice several nutrition agents in plums. In the next section, let’s look at some of the plums’ beneficial nutrition ingredients for turtles’ health.
What are the Health Benefits Plums Offer for Turtles Health
These are some positive health benefits of plums that work well in turtles’ bodies. Let’s take a look at how plums can be healthy treats for your shelled friends:
Vitamin Pack
Plums are packed with vitamins A and C, which are essential for a robust immune system and healthy vision. They provide a boost of tiny turtle vitamins – keeping your little shell-dweller healthy and bright-eyed.
Antioxidants in plums include vitamin C, which protects your turtle’s body from harm. These special helpers fight off free radicals (unstable molecules that damage cells) and keep your turtle healthy and strong.
Digestive Delight
The fiber content (0.9g) in plums can aid digestion, which helps things move smoothly through your turtle’s system. Imagine it as a natural tummy cleanser for your tiny tank dweller.
Hydration Booster
These fruits are full of water, which is vital for turtles to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather. Plums can be considered a juicy summer snack to keep your little friend cool.
Is there Any Risk of the Plum Diet for Turtles?
We learned that plums can be a tasty and safe treat for some turtles if served in balance. But there’s a flip side to the story when you serve it on a regular basis. Here’s why moderation is essential when it comes to these juicy fruits:
Sugar Problems
Plums are loaded with sugar, and too much can cause tummy troubles for your turtle. Imagine giving them too much candy—not good for their delicate digestive system. A diabetic’s concerns remain the same as ours when they overeat food.
Tiny Seed Trouble
Plum pits and seeds might seem harmless, but they contain traces of cyanide, which can poison turtles in large amounts. We recommend avoiding them altogether, just like you wouldn’t share apple seeds with your pet.
Choking Hazard Alert
Those same pits and seeds can also be a choking hazard for your tiny friend. Safety first! Permanently remove the pits and cut plums into bite-sized pieces before offering them to your turtle.
How Much Plums are Considered Safe for Turtles’ Diet?
A good rule of thumb is to offer 1-2 small pieces of plum 2-3 times a week. This lets your little shell-dweller enjoy the flavor without overloading it with sugar. It’s like dessert for us – tasty, but not what we eat all the time.
The real stars of your turtle’s diet should be leafy greens and veggies. These provide all the essential nutrients your turtle needs to thrive. This diet is like a healthy salad that keeps your tiny tank-dweller happy and robust.
Preparation Tips for Serving Plums to Turtles
To make sure your turtle’s plum treat is safe and yummy, follow these steps:
First things first, rinse those plums under running water. Just like we wouldn’t eat dirty fruit, your turtle shouldn’t either. This removes any dirt or residue on the skin.
Next comes the chopping block. Cut the plums into small, bite-sized pieces. You’ve got to think about your turtle’s mouth size—they can’t handle big chunks.
Finally, how you serve the plums is up to you. Some turtles like to explore their food in their enclosure so that you can place pieces inside or in a separate bowl. Others might prefer a hand-feeding adventure. Just follow your turtle’s lead and enjoy the snack time bonding.
Which Turtle Species Have an Interest in Eating Plums?
Not all turtles enjoy the same treats! So, which shelled friends can nibble on plums? Here’s a quick rundown:
Terrestrial Turtles
Box turtles, those land-dwelling cuties from North, Central, and South America, can enjoy a taste of a plum. Remember, they live on land so that fruits can be a part of their diet, but only in moderation.
Freshwater Feasters
Aquatic turtles, splashing around in lakes, rivers, and ponds, might also enjoy a bite of plum. Just like box turtles, fruit should be an occasional treat, not a main course.
Indian Roof Revelers
Indian roofed turtles, native to India’s rivers and ponds, can join the plum party, too. However, the same rule applies – keep it a sometimes snack, not a staple.
Important Note
Even though these turtles can eat the plums mentioned here, other species can also have plum-eating taste. You can try serving plums to check if your one is interested or not.
However, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian before you face any issues with your turtle’s diet. They can advise on portion sizes and potential allergies.
Can Box Turtles Eat Plums?
Yes, box turtles can eat plums. If you own a box turtle, you can serve plums as a snack. They seem to love them, but you have to remember you can’t add plums to their daily diet. However, in the wild, they are not used to having plums, as they are not available.
Read More: Can Turtles Eat Guppies?
Wrapping Up
So, do you get the answer to this question now: Can Turtles Eat Plums? Yes, they can. But, consider plums as a colorful surprise, a way to add variety to your turtle’s diet. But keep it moderate, with a focus on healthy greens and veggies for their main course. You and your shelled buddy can have a safe and fun plum time by following these tips and keeping moderation in mind.