EXPERIENCE ROXY'S PET SHOP CARE SHEETS

 🐢 Horsefield Tortoise Care Sheet | Roxy’s Pet Shop

Scientific Name: Testudo horsfieldii
Lifespan: 40–60 years (or more with good care)
Adult Size: 6–10 inches (shell length)
Temperament: Curious, active, friendly tortoise — great for beginners

• Enclosure Type: Open-top Tortoise Table — essential for good airflow and low humidity.
• Minimum Size: 90 x 60cm (3x2ft) for a juvenile; bigger for adults
• Substrate:
  • Mix of mineral soil , woodchip , 2–4 inches deep for digging.
  • Keep dry; spot clean daily and replace when needed.
• Décor: Hides, logs, flat rocks for basking, and edible safe plants.
   

• Basking Area: 30–32°C (86–90°F)
• Cool Side: 18–22°C (64–72°F)
• Nighttime Temperature: Can drop to 16°C (60°F)
• UVB Lighting: Essential — 10–12% UVB tube light or combined UVB/heat bulb, on for 10–12 hours daily.
• Heating: Overhead basking bulb (with guard) controlled by a thermostat.
   

• Humidity Level: 30–50% (low) — Horsefields require a dry environment.
• Water: Shallow water dish for drinking and soaking — refresh daily.
• Soaking: Juveniles should be bathed in lukewarm water 2–3 times a week; adults weekly.
   

• Diet: 100% plant-based (herbivore).
  • Daily fresh weeds and leafy greens: dandelion, plantain, clover, romaine lettuce, kale.
  • Occasional safe flowers: hibiscus, rose petals, pansies.
  • Avoid fruit, spinach, iceberg lettuce, and high-protein foods.
• Calcium Supplement: Sprinkle on food 4–5 times per week (plus cuttlefish bone in the table for free access).
   

• Gentle handling only — avoid stressing or flipping.
• Supervised floor time indoors or outdoor pens in warm weather recommended.
   

• Spot Clean: Daily waste removal.
• Deep Clean: Monthly full clean of table and replacement of substrate.
   

✔️ Tortoise Table (minimum 90x60cm)
✔️ Substrate: Topsoil & wood chip or aspen
✔️ Overhead Basking Bulb + Lamp Holder
✔️ UVB Tube Light (10–12% UVB) + Reflector
✔️ Digital Thermometer
✔️ Shallow Water Bowl
✔️ Food Dish (optional — can feed directly on substrate)
✔️ Hide/Cave
✔️ Flat Rocks for Basking
✔️ Edible Plants / Artificial Décor
✔️ Cuttlefish Bone (Calcium Source)
✔️ Calcium Powder Supplement
✔️ Reptile-Safe Disinfectant