Feeding and Nutrition :: Question about Calcium & D3 supplement

[SAL]

Hi all - I'm very new to turtle ownership. About few months ago we found 3 RES babies/juveniles in the skimmer baskets of our pool (non-chlorine - chemical free). I found a supplement that my 3 little turtles just love and it's much cheaper than what's available specifically for turtles, but I wondered if anyone could tell me if there are any problems with using it. They are actually chewable tablets for dogs and cats, but I break them into small pieces and give them to the turtles once in a while.

Here's the info from the bottle:
Ingredients: Dicalcium phosphate, brewers dried yeast, dried whey, hydrolyzed soy protein, magnesium stearate and vitamin D3 supplement.

Guaranteed Analysis:
Calcium, min 300 mg
Calcium, max 360 mg
Phosphorus, min 250 mg
Vitamin D3 245 I.U

I know the nitrifying bacteria need phosphorus, so I thought that might be good to help them multiply and keep my ammonia levels down.

Let me know what you think.

Thanks!

[steve]

It's better if a supplement does not have phosphorus but I'm not aware of anyone using a variety for cats and dogs. The most popular one out there is Rep-Cal, and you can dust the pellets or add them to a recipe for treats.

[SAL]

Is phosphorus bad for them? I just knew from my research that in order for the nitrifying bacteria to grow, they needed phosphorus, so I figured it would be ok. That was against my nature, since I have pools I maintain and keeping phosphates at zero is critical to avoid algae growth.

[steve]

I can't speak for phosphorus in their water, but in the diet you don't want it to exceed their calcium intake.

"Phosphorous – An element that is critical to the regulation of metabolic processes and other biochemical reactions. It is combined with calcium as the important elements of the bones and shell. Excessive phosphorous can inhibit calcium absorption, therefore it should not exceed calcium intake."

[cutepanda86]

How often should an RES get cuttlebone or calcium? I bought a supplement called Turtle Bone but I want to wait to make sure Sheldon is eating right.

[steve]

Turtle Bone is the same thing but costs more. Always remove a hard backing if there is one. You can use it a 2-3 times a week, though some people just leave large pieces in their tank for their RES to nibble.

[cutepanda86]

Ah I see. Well after a water swap tomorrow, I'll put one in. Thanks!