An abundance of protein in the feed is converted in the liver into carbohydrates and fat. The first step in this conversion is the reduction of the amino acid (The NH2 group is removed and converted into urea). Due to this mechanism, animals that consume a lot of protein can get high levels of urea in their blood that may be dangerous, as it may lead to liver failure or kidney failure. A high level of protein in the feed is not only caused by consuming meat, but also beans, for example, or other vegetable diet rich in protein.
High levels of protein can also affect the calcium metabolism and lead to extreme growth and premature sexual development.
This is seen regularly with animals that are born in captivity. They are often five times as heavy as their fellow species in the wild, show sexually abnormal behaviour and have horn shells that are deformed, pyramid shaped and also deformed. Radiological research also shows deformation of the bone and a low bone density. This can all be prevented by not giving the animals large amounts of protein, and to make sure that minerals and vitamins are given in the right dose.
In general, the following can be stated about the feed of turtles: Low in fat and protein, Rich in minerals and vitamins, High in fibre and containing Sufficient fluid.
Protein in the feed of tortoises
08oktober2008
The feed of tortoises in the wild contains one to five percent of protein. It is safe to assume that food that is regularly presented can contain a level of protein of seven percent maximum.
