Vet Talk: Think twice before getting that tiny terrapin

Straits Times

27-04-2025

Red-eared sliders require access to dry areas, where they can bask, and water for swimming. PHOTO: ANIMAL & VETERINARY SERVICE
Vet Talk: Think twice before getting that tiny terrapin
SINGAPORE – It is common to see these little critters on display in pet shops and aquariums here. Slightly larger than a bottle cap, a baby red-eared slider can be easily bought and taken home as a pet.
However, people are often taken by surprise when they realise these tiny terrapins eventually grow to the size of a dinner plate and have a long lifespan.
Increased care needs as they grow have led to frequent abandonment of these terrapins.
Red-eared sliders: Popular pet or invasive species?
Red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans) are popular pets worldwide. In Singapore, they are one of two species from the chelonian family (reptiles with shells, which include terrapins, tortoises and turtles) allowed as pets.
A young red-eared slider is smaller than the palm of a hand.
PHOTO: ANIMAL & VETERINARY SERVICE
However, these terrapins have also earned a spot on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) top 100 list of the world's worst invasive species.
Originally from the United States and Mexico, they have since spread to all continents in the world except Antarctica. Research suggests that, when introduced to new environments, these terrapins may compete with native species for food or introduce new diseases into the ecosystem.
Pet abandonment a serious welfare issue
In Singapore, these terrapins are often found in urban ponds, reservoirs and sometimes in drain canals.
Abandoned terrapins often struggle to survive if they cannot find food or adapt to their new environment. Those that venture onto roads run the risk of getting run over and becoming severely injured or dying.
What to consider before getting a red-eared slider
Before bringing home a red-eared slider, it is crucial to know that the tiny hatchlings can grow into 20cm-long adults or even larger, and they can live as long as 30 years .
Red-eared sliders can grow into 20cm-long adults or even larger, far exceeding their sale size.
PHOTO: ANIMAL & VETERINARY SERVICE
For proper housing, a terrapin needs space at least five times its body length. The water's depth should allow the terrapin to swim without touching the tank's sides or bottom.
Terrapins are best housed singly. If kept together, terrapins require multiple spots for feeding, basking and hiding to minimise stress and aggression.
Their environmental needs are equally important. Terrapins require access to dry areas, where they can bask, and water for swimming . The water must be kept clean with a filter and changed regularly. Feeding in a separate tank can help minimise the frequency of water changes.
Like many reptiles, terrapins love to bask under the sun or a heat lamp. When housed indoors, they require ultraviolet light during the day. This is crucial to keep their shell and bones healthy. Adding hiding areas, large rocks and aquatic plants to the enclosure is also an excellent way to provide enrichment for the terrapins.
A proper diet for red-eared sliders should consist of formulated turtle pellets, fresh leafy greens, fruit and animal protein such as fish and insects. Young terrapins require a higher proportion of animal protein in their diet compared with adults.
Multivitamin and calcium supplements should be added regularly to their food.
Like all pets, terrapins need regular health checks. Common health issues include nutritional deficiencies, shell and respiratory infections, and egg binding, which refers to difficulty in laying eggs.
A sick terrapin may not show obvious signs of illness, aside from a drop in appetite and energy. When in doubt, consult a veterinarian promptly.
Owning a pet is a lifetime commitment. If you are uncertain about this long-term responsibility, consider other pet options or adopt an adult terrapin from local rescue organisations.
Dr Petrina Teo is a veterinarian with the Animal & Veterinary Service.
Vet Talk is a fortnightly column where veterinarians offer advice on pet issues.
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