Let’s face it: your tortoise might not throw you the ball, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to have some fun. 🐢 Just like other pets, tortoises need enrichment to keep their curious minds and slow-moving bodies active. From climbing structures to foraging puzzles, the best toys for tortoises promote mental stimulation and encourage natural behaviors. So, what are the best toys for tortoises? Let’s dive in.
- Why tortoises need toys
- Choosing the right toys for your tortoise
- The top 5 best toys for tortoises
- Homemade tortoise toys
- Toys to avoid
- Keep your tortoise engaged
- Enrichment beyond toys
- What does Petme have to do with it?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Why tortoises need toys (and why boredom is the enemy)
Tortoises might seem like they’re just lounging around most of the time, but they are surprisingly inquisitive creatures. In the wild, they spend their days exploring, digging, climbing, and foraging for food. These activities help keep their minds sharp and their bodies healthy. Without proper enrichment, pet tortoises can become bored, which leads to stress, lethargy, and even harmful behaviors like shell rubbing or biting at objects.
In short, your tortoise needs some fun in their life. And the good news is, you don’t need to break the bank to make it happen!
Choosing the right toys for your tortoise
Before you throw a tennis ball into your tortoise’s tank, take a second. Not all toys are created equal, especially for these shelled slowpokes. When picking toys, think about your tortoise’s natural behaviors. Do they like to dig? Do they enjoy climbing? What about foraging for food? Keeping these in mind will help you choose toys that keep your tortoise entertained and healthy.
Key things to consider:
- Safety first: Avoid small parts that could be swallowed or materials that might be toxic (plastic and rubber, I’m looking at you).
- Durability: Tortoises aren’t exactly gentle, so the tougher, the better.
- Cleanliness: You’ll need to clean these toys often, so opt for materials that are easy to sanitize.
Your Pets Deserve More Than a Like. They Deserve a Community.
Your Pets Deserve More Than a Like. They Deserve a Community.
The top 5 best toys for tortoises
1. Digging boxes: let them play archaeologist 🕵️♂️
Tortoises love to dig—it’s in their nature. A digging box filled with soil or coconut fiber can provide hours of fun. Bury their favorite treats or safe objects, and watch your tortoise get to work! You can make a simple DIY digging box with a plastic container filled with natural materials like sand or soil.
Pro tip: Make sure the substrate is free of any sharp or harmful materials. This should be a safe zone for your tortoise’s digging desires.
Bonus: Bury some of their favorite snacks in the box to add an extra layer of excitement.
2. Climbing structures: king of the hill vibes 🏔️
Yes, tortoises climb—well, they attempt to. A sturdy rock or log structure gives your tortoise a chance to channel their inner mountain goat. Whether it’s a few large stones or a small wooden platform, climbing toys can provide physical activity and a sense of accomplishment. Plus, your tortoise gets to show off their skills!
DIY Tip: Stack a few safe rocks or use non-toxic wood to create a mini mountain in their habitat.
3. Foraging puzzles: food meets fun 🍽️
Who says food can’t be fun? A food puzzle or maze is perfect for tortoises. Hide their snacks inside, and let them figure out how to get the food. Foraging puzzles engage their problem-solving skills and make them work a bit for their favorite treats—just like in the wild.
Best part: You can make a food puzzle at home using toilet paper rolls, cardboard boxes, or PVC pipes.
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Homemade tortoise toys: get creative without breaking the bank
You don’t have to buy every toy your tortoise plays with. In fact, some of the best toys can be made at home. For more ideas and step-by-step instructions, check out our guide on DIY tortoise toys. Here are a few easy DIY tortoise toys that will keep your shelled buddy entertained and stimulated:
- Cardboard jungle gym
Tortoises are low-key explorers. A jungle gym made out of cardboard tubes or boxes can give them the adventure of a lifetime. Stack different shapes and sizes of boxes, cut some windows and doors, and let your tortoise roam. - Tortoise food ball
Roll up some of their favorite food (like leafy greens) inside a ball of safe, untreated grass or hay. This DIY toy will keep them occupied as they figure out how to nibble through the layers to get to their meal. - Basking platform
Tortoises love to bask. Create a basking area using a smooth rock or a wooden board elevated slightly off the ground. This provides a perfect spot for your tortoise to soak in some warmth, which is essential for their health.
Toys to avoid (because safety is cool)
While toys are essential for tortoise happiness, not all are safe. Here’s what to avoid:
- Small parts: Anything that could fit in your tortoise’s mouth should be off-limits to avoid choking.
- Sharp edges: Toys with rough or sharp parts can harm your tortoise’s sensitive skin or shell.
- Toxic materials: Steer clear of plastics and rubber that aren’t pet-safe. Look for natural, untreated materials wherever possible.
Always monitor your tortoise during playtime to make sure the toys are safe and still in good condition. You know how pets can be—they’ll find the one tiny thing you missed and chew on it!
Keep your tortoise engaged: toy rotation 101
Just like your dog might get bored with the same old tennis ball, tortoises can lose interest in toys over time. To keep things exciting, rotate your tortoise’s toys every couple of weeks. This doesn’t mean tossing them out entirely—just stash them away and reintroduce them later. Variety is the spice of life, even for tortoises!
Plus, rotating toys helps you clean and inspect them regularly. Win-win. If you’re interested in exploring more pet reptiles and expanding your collection of cold-blooded companions, check out our guide on the best reptile pets to find other species that might match your lifestyle.
Enrichment beyond toys: how to enhance your tortoise’s environment
Toys aren’t the only way to keep your tortoise entertained. Sometimes, a simple change in their environment can make all the difference. Rearranging their tank, introducing new rocks, or adding a plant can provide fresh stimulation.
Try adding natural elements like:
- New hiding spots: Move their favorite hidey-hole to a different part of the tank or introduce new ones.
- Water features: For tortoises that love water, a shallow pool with a few floating toys (like a floating log) can turn playtime into splash time.
- Outdoor time: If you can safely take your tortoise outside, the natural world is the best toy of all. Just make sure it’s a secure area, and always supervise!
What does Petme have to do with it?
Speaking of keeping pets entertained, platforms like Petme offer a great way to learn from other tortoise owners. Not only can you share your favorite tortoise toy ideas, but Petme’s community is also a fantastic place to swap tips on enrichment, feeding, and care. Plus, if your tortoise isn’t into toys, why not make them a star on social media? After all, tortoises can be influencers too. 🐢✨
If you’re curious about other fascinating turtle species that could be the perfect addition to your family, take a look at our list of the 19 types of turtles that make great pets.
Conclusion: a happy tortoise is a healthy tortoise
Tortoises may not be as excitable as a puppy, but they need just as much love and attention. By choosing the right toys, you can keep your tortoise mentally stimulated, physically active, and—let’s be honest—pretty darn happy. Whether it’s DIY digging boxes or climbing toys, the possibilities for tortoise fun are endless. So, go ahead and enrich your tortoise’s life—they’ll thank you in their own slow, steady way.
FAQs
Can tortoises get bored?
Yes! Without enough stimulation, tortoises can get bored, which can lead to stress and unhealthy behaviors.
How often should I rotate my tortoise’s toys?
It’s a good idea to switch out their toys every few weeks to keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
Are there any toys I should avoid giving my tortoise?
Avoid small, sharp, or toxic toys. Always choose durable, non-toxic materials that are safe for tortoises.
What natural materials can I use for DIY tortoise toys?
Natural, untreated wood, rocks, coconut fiber, and safe plants are great options for tortoise toys.
Do tortoises really like to climb?
Yes, many tortoise species love to climb. It’s a great way to give them exercise and keep them entertained.
