As with any other pet, it is important to ensure that you are fully aware of what your tortoise can and can’t eat. Whilst there are many vegetables that are safe for them to consume, others should be given in moderation.
The majority of tortoises are omnivores meaning that their diet is made up of plants, insects, worms, fish, and snails, however, you will find some that are herbivores. As such, they feed on grass, leafy plants, fruits, flowers, and vegetables.
If you have questions as to whether your tortoise can eat asparagus we have provided you with the answers in our guide below. We have covered the nutritional value of this vegetable along with any concerns regarding its toxins.
Is Asparagus Safe For All Species Of Tortoise?
Asparagus is safe for most tortoise species to eat. Although it is going to add some nutrition to your tortoise’s diet, you must make sure that it is given in moderation. This is because it is known as a diuretic and it is believed to increase urine production.
For this reason, if it is consumed excessively, there is a risk of it leaving your tortoise dehydrated. Aside from this, asparagus also has a low calcium to phosphate ratio, so you should avoid feeding it to your tortoise in large amounts.
Whilst asparagus does contain traces of oxalate, it also contains a lot of protein so it should be given as an occasional treat, rather than a daily addition to meals.
Generally, tortoises are known to have ravenous appetites so you will likely find that they will eat practically any vegetable that is presented to them. It is important to monitor their diet to make sure that overeating doesn’t become an issue.
Ideally, you should chop the asparagus up before feeding it to your tortoise because this is going to make it easier to digest.
Also, remember that different species of tortoises are accustomed to different environments which is reflected in their dietary preferences.
For example, some tortoises may be reluctant to eat asparagus if it is not something that they would typically eat in the wild, however, the majority that are kept as pets will be willing to try an array of fruits and vegetables.
It is important to make sure that the asparagus should not become a staple part of your tortoise’s diet and is supplemented by a balance of minerals and vitamins.
Is Asparagus Toxic To Tortoises?
There are many common plants and vegetables that are toxic for tortoises, asparagus ferns being one of them. The level of toxicity can vary between plants, with some having a mild effect and others have a more severe impact.
As such, you shouldn’t feed them to your pet tortoise. If you are a keen grower of asparagus ferns, you must make sure that it is not in close proximity to your tortoise.
Asparagus berries also should not be fed to or eaten by your tortoise because they are toxic. Despite being called berries, they are seed pods and although they may look pleasing, consuming them is not recommended.
How much asparagus should a tortoise be fed?
This will depend on the size of your tortoise as those that are smaller aren’t going to be fed it in the same quantity as those that are bigger. As asparagus comes in bunches of spears it is easier to monitor how much they are fed.
Typically those that are smaller or not yet fully grown, will likely eat some leaves from the bulb, whereas larger tortoises will likely find a sliced spear rather manageable. Remember, that asparagus should not be fed with every meal, instead, it should be given as an occasional treat.
Ideally, you should introduce vegetables to your tortoise’s diet from a young age as they will then become more familiar with them and you will find that they are more accepting of a variety of different fruits and vegetables.
If you have any concerns regarding whether or not your tortoise can eat asparagus or the exact amount that they should be fed, you will need to consult a professional.
Aside from this, it is also recommended that you dedicate sufficient time to researching the foods that are and aren’t suitable additions to your tortoise’s diet.
What other vegetables are safe for tortoises to eat?
Now that we have established that asparagus is safe for tortoises to eat so long as it is fed in moderation, you may be wondering what other vegetables they can eat. We have listed a few below.
Most tortoises enjoy tough vegetables that crunch as they nibble on them. Cabbage, potatoes, and carrots being prime examples. You can also try feeding them green beans, peas, and bell peppers.
As mentioned, you may discover that there are some vegetables which your tortoise loves, and others which they may seem a little more hesitant to try. So long as the foods you give them are safe for their consumption, it is essentially a matter of trial and error.
Fruits should be fed more sparingly than vegetables because they don’t offer quite as much nutritional value. This doesn’t mean that they can’t be fed fruits at all as you will likely find that they enjoy feasting on apples, grapes, and melons.
Final Thoughts
In response to the question, yes tortoises can eat asparagus and it is safe for the majority of species. You will find that the eating habits of tortoises can differ depending on the species.
Furthermore, you must avoid feeding your tortoise an excessive amount of asparagus because it can lead to increased urination, etc. The ferns and berries are toxic to tortoises, therefore feeding them these parts should be avoided completely.
Research will prove crucial in understanding the dietary habits of your tortoise. It will ease any hesitations that you may encounter regarding what is and isn’t suitable for their consumption.
Furthermore, it will also give you a greater understanding of the quantities that they should be fed.
