Can I keep a turtle in a plastic tub?

Question

Hi. I wanted a turtle, and I have an aquarium, but the aquarium is only 12"x24". When I did some research, I learned that that is not big enough, but a few websites said that I can keep a turtle in a large rubbermaid container or some other plastic utility container. Is this true? Other than the fact that it doesn't look as nice as keeping it in an aquarium, are there any problems with it? If I can, how big of a container would I need for two Red-Eared Slider turtles?

Answer 1

its probably not great for your turtle, but i dont think it will hurt it as long as this plastic container has a way to let oxygen in and out and can have a heat lamp over it.  red eared sliders are really sensitive and are fairly hard to keep alive no matter what conditions they are kept in.  they need water, gravel, and a large rock to sun on.

Answer 2

I think it would be a good temporary home, and i've kept many of my pets in plastic tubs, but most of the time air flow was the biggest concern. Although it would seem that the turtles can't crawl out, and you dont need a lid, unwanted items, more dust, and any other pets (dogs, cats) can get into the plastic tub. Aquariums would look nicer, and if you want a really nice aquarium for cheap, thrift stores carry EVERYTHING.

Answer 3

Yes, a plastic tub works. but RES get pretty big...so think ahead. A hard plastic wading pool will provide lots of room, and further down the line, rubbermaid makes HUGE stock tanks that make great homes for turtles.For 200 dollars you can get one that holds 300 gallons and is about 3 ft deep. Makes a great indoor or outdoor pond for the turtles, you can provide an island and basking area, etc.

The larger the container, the easier it is to keep water  quality high and the turtles healthy and active.

heads up...the large storage containers, when filled with water "bow'" out, they are pretty strong and I've used them, but be aware that can happen. If it worries you, knock together a frame from plywood or lumber.

Answer 4

I overwinter turtles in very large rubber made containers all the time.  Not only is it okay - it's better than an aquarium.  It provides much more space and the glass can confuse the turtles and make them wonder why they can't get out.  This stresses them.  The UV light and heat source will not melt the container unless you get it right onto the plastic.  If you place the tub outside with partial sun and shade, you won't even have to use a UV light.  Natural sunlight is so much better for them.  Buy the largest container you can get - much cheaper than a glass aquarium - and a solid colored one (not see through.)  The only problem you might have is changing the water with such a large container.  Keep it someplace where you can easily drain the water with a hose and refill it.  

Good luck to you and your turtle!  :)

Answer 5

i am a pet lover 2 :)

all animals do best in a place with lots of room, and i don't think a plastic container is good for turtles

well if the container doesn't have a lid than stuff could get inside--you know, dust, dirt, hair--

yeah turtles need swimming room

you should get a bigger aquarium

Answer 6

I don`t see a problem in what you keep the animal in. The only thing is there is chance your heat bulb could melt the plastic if you get it too close. You may want to go for one of those plastic pond things that you get at hardware stores, because most people say 10 gallons per inch of turtle. So if you have a 6 inch slider you need a 60 gallon tank.

Answer 7

i've keeped turtles in plastic storing containers like the big blue ones so i wouldn't see why it wouldn't work for your turtle :D good luck