At first glance, the turtle seems to be one of the easiest pets to handle. But in caring for this creature there are subtleties that you need to know. For example, a turtle has the ability to hibernate for the winter. And after the first wintering, the owner of the turtle may have a question: how can you wake it up now? And will she be all right when she wakes up? First of all, in order to worry less about the successful awakening of the turtle, it must be properly hibernated.
Instructions
Step 1
If you keep your turtle in a terrarium where it gets enough warmth and light at all times of the year, you do not need to hibernate it. She will winter well without it. If your pet lives in indoor conditions, there is a risk that it will hibernate without control and preparation, in some secluded corner. Wintering in conditions of low humidity, at room temperature, poses a threat to the health of the turtle.
Step 2
The turtle must be ready to hibernate. Only a healthy reptile that does not have parasites and chronic diseases can winter safely in this state. Therefore, before wintering, it is better to show the turtle to a herpetologist veterinarian. Also, before hibernation, the turtle must be well fed - fat reserves will be required for the wintering period.
Step 3
To prepare for hibernation, the turtle needs to stop feeding (but not watering), and after another week, give it the last bath, and then stop water procedures. After one more week, the turtle can be laid for the winter in a box lined with a thick layer of moss or peat. This layer should be periodically moistened during wintering. Reduce the temperature gradually to 6-10 ° C for two weeks. You can also cover the sleeping turtle on top with dry leaves or hay. Do not forget to make ventilation holes in the lid of the drawer.
Step 4
The wintering period depends on the age of the turtle. Young turtles should not be hibernated for more than 4 weeks. Adults can spend up to 5 months in this state. Do not think that you can forget about the turtle during hibernation: be sure to control its condition. If the turtle shows signs of activity, hibernation should be stopped.
Step 5
To bring the turtle out of hibernation, start gradually increasing the temperature in its shelter, so that it reaches room temperature within five days. Then you can turn on the additional heating and bathe the turtle in warm water. After about a week, your pet should start eating and regain activity. If this does not happen, you need to contact your veterinarian.
