What is the best tortoise enclosure?
In our opinion, the best enclosures for tortoises are:
Easy to assemble, this product supplies your pet with both a resting area and an open play space. Additionally, the model is made from quality wood, reason why it is durable.
Comparison table
If you are looking for an enclosure to spend quality time with your tortoise outside, this pick is the right product. It will allow your pets to absorb the natural UVB rays from the sun, which is crucial for their health and for a proper growth of the shell.
Do be mindful of the size of this unit. It is 40 x 20 x 17 inches which might not be enough for certain tortoise species that are large.
You are going to love this versatile enclosure that can act as both a playing area and a resting area. You will now be able to let your pet have fun during the warm summer days.
If affordability is on your mind, this quality purchase is a durable pet crate that can be used for both indoors and outdoors purposes. It is extremely easy to set up and transport which is why customers are in love with this option.
While the unit is advertised as rust resistant, a few customers noticed that after a few seasons, rust started to set in.
The OxGord Pet Exercise is a versatile enclosure that can be used to house all your beloved pets, from tortoises to rabbits and dogs. It also comes at a very accessible price.
This enclosure is built from high-quality and sturdy wood and it comes with two compartments: an open one and a private one. The private compartment will help your tortoise get a feeling of safety and security. You can also use it outside.
Unfortunately, a few customers had difficulties setting this unit up, blaming the instructions which were unclear and hard to follow.
If you’re looking for a unit that can work as both an indoor and outdoor enclosure, this is a pick that customers loved. The weatherproof sleeping area will keep your tortoise safe.
Our Top Choice 
2nd Best
Also To Consider
5 Best Tortoise Enclosures (Reviews) in 2023
1. Zoo Med Tortoise Play Pen
If you want to settle for an enclosure to use while spending time outdoors with your pet tortoise, the Zoo Med Tortoise Play is just what you need. Spacious and sturdy, this product was developed in an attempt to provide your pet with a comfortable space for when spending time outside the home.
In fact, this interesting cage has two distinct areas. While the open space can be used as a playing area, the second, private part is the ideal resting area. Therefore, by settling for this model, you’ll be able to equip your pet with a fun, intuitive space that can be used during the warm summer days.
What is more, when used, this product encourages the pet to absorb natural UVB rays from the sunlight. According to the specialists, these rays are essential in the tortoise’s process of development. In fact, UVA UVB light has been linked to improving shell growth and the overall health of the pet.
This enclosure is ideal for pet parents who want to let their tortoise get out and about for some sunshine when it is warm and pleasant enough outside.
The option is made of wood with a metal bar panel that will keep your pet securely inside without any chance of it getting injured or escaping while inside of it.
When your tortoise is done bathing in natural sunlight which is very important for shell growth, the pen has a private sleeping area for the pet to enjoy.
It is very easy to assemble since even customers who have never assembled a playpen before had no issue getting this unit up and ready to use in no time.
It appears that the cage is too small for Russian tortoises, so you might want to double-check the size of the product before purchasing it.
If your yard is not perfectly flat, the enclosure will not be 100% secure and the pet might escape.
2. OxGord 8-Panel Metal Fence with Anchors Heavy Duty Pen Tube
Another model that might stir your interest is the OxGord Pet Exercise. Highly accessible by comparison to other similar products, this model is a durable pet crate that can be used indoors as well as in the natural environment.
Because it is easy to put together, take apart as well as to transport, this product is deemed to be appreciated by all those who like to spend quality time with their pets. Moreover, the fact that this model comes with a rust-resistant coating guarantees that it is a durable, resistant product.
Additionally, the fact that it has a 73 inches octagon diameter suggests that the device is sizable enough to be used when playing with other pets. Besides, if you end up settling for this model, you can be sure that your pets are safe thanks to the fact that this crate has a locking mechanism that does not allow them from escaping.
There are three sizes you can choose from and no matter how many pets you have, this brand has a choice that will satisfy everyone’s requirements.
The pen is constructed from sturdy rust-resistant coated metal and that will provide increased durability and longevity so that you can continue using it for years to come.
It is a very versatile choice that offers excellent value for the money since it can house all types of outdoor pets thanks to the tall walls that are extremely sturdy and secure.
Safety is very important and an aspect that pet owners always need to consider when leaving their pals outdoors; fortunately, this model features round edges that won’t scratch or harm pets.
The setup process is very simple – you only need to unfold the panels and link them together using the included equipment.
Some buyers have reported that with time the paint on the fence can start to peel off.
3. Zoo Med Tortoise House
Another model that is worth considering by those that want the best for their pet is the Zoo Med Wood Tortoise. With a great price to value ratio, this device is not only practical but also easy on the eye. Thanks to the fact that it has a sturdy wood construction, the model is said to be quite dependable.
What is more, similarly to the previous model made by the same manufacturer, this tortoise house also has two parts, an open part and a private one. Additionally, because it is as the manufacturer puts it `weatherproof`, the unit can be used for indoor housing and while out in the garden.
Additionally, the lockable wire safety cover that the model comes fitted with guarantees that your pet is secure in it. Moreover, if you remove the product’s end panel you can, in fact, double the cage’s size by connecting it to another product of this type.
This complete tortoise house is made of natural fir wood sidings and metal components which give it a pleasant aesthetic and long-lasting durability.
It comes equipped with a weatherproof private sleeping area where your pet can shelter if the weather gets too unpleasant.
The product has garnered lots of positive consumer reviews thanks in part to the expandable, modular design.
You can use it in both indoor and outdoor locations since it is sturdy enough to handle every environment and keep your tortoise comfortable.
The lockable wire safety cover will ensure that your pet is always secure while inside this enclosure with no chance of escaping or predators getting to it.
A few customers have received their product in bad shape which might be related to the poor packaging that does very little in terms of protecting the wood parts.
If left in the rain for too long, the wood cage can begin to warp.
4. Ferplast Rabbit/Guinea Pig 100 Double Cage
If you are scouring the net for a roomy home for your pet, the Petsfit Rabbit Hutch is another model worth having in mind. Although it was not designed to cater for a tortoise’s needs, this device is fitted to do so.
Because it is quite sizable (it has 36”Lx 20”W x30”H), this product is capable of providing your tortoise with the needed space for it to be active while out in the sun. Moreover, previous customers were very much satisfied with the product’s quality.
As a way of making sure that the product is safe to use with pets, the manufacturer treated the cage with water-based paint, so that no animal is affected by the chemical substances that can be found in normal paint. As a plus, although the unit is shipped in pieces, users say that it is quite easy to put together. Even more so, pre-drilled holes help owners speed up the assembly process.
The enclosure features a solid wood construction and sturdy wires so that your pet can’t accidentally fall from it.
It has a classic and stylish design that allows it to be placed in any room without it feeling out of place.
While this model is designed for indoor use, we have found numerous comments from owners saying that it performs great in outdoor conditions as well.
The unit includes a large open area for your tortoise to explore and play together with a cozy private room for it to sleep or relax when it doesn’t want to be disturbed.
The floor can be removed for easy cleaning and the entire unit comes with pre-drilled holes to make the assembly process a piece of cake.
The bottom of the cage is not 100% leak-proof and owners have reported that, though not an often occurrence, waste can leak on the floor.
5. Miraculous Joy Wood Picket Fence
Last but definitely not least, the Miraculous Joy Wood Picket Fence is another product you should give a good look. Designed as a Turtle Play Pen, this model is ideal for outdoor activities that you can enjoy with your turtle.
From a technical point of view, it has to be said that this unit consists of a mini fence made from durable carbonized wood that has been hand cut and that, as a result, is non-toxic. What is more, due to the fact that it has been carbonized, this item is resistant to molding and is not likely to be infested with parasites.
Likewise, the product is said to be easy to put together and disassemble whenever needed without the use of any tools or additional devices. Also, in between uses, the unit can be safely stored and does not take too much space. Still, if you want to arrange the fence in a particular shape, you can do so effortlessly.
The versatile DIY fence is ideal for play, exercise, or training and it can be used both indoors and outdoors thanks to its use of durable and weatherproof materials.
The fence leaves the entire top area uncovered so that your tortoise can absorb the natural UVB rays from the sunlight which are very important for their health and for shell growth.
Because it is made of wood, the entire enclosure is very lightweight and that makes it easier to assemble and disassemble, store, and transport.
The wood fence will blend beautifully with its surroundings no matter if you are using it indoors or outdoors and it will simulate a natural environment for your pet tortoise.
Each piece features a connecting plug that is free from angle restriction so that you can set the enclosure to be any shape you like.
The major concern with this option is that it lacks a private and weatherproof sleeping area.
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
Still searching for the best enclosure for tortoise, for sale but you have trouble deciding on a model due to the fact that the market is overflowing with similar products? If so, do not despair, there’s an easy way out. Because we know just how difficult the job of finding a great product is, we have composed a list of must-have features that you should have in mind while shopping in this line of products.
Size
Although this might seem obvious, one key feature that a good tortoise enclosure has to have is a good size. Because you most probably want the enclosure to supply the pet with enough space for it to move around in, it is important that the model you end up buying is sizeable enough.
However, in the search for space, one might exaggerate and order a product that is way too large and as a result unfitted for the pet. A good rule of thumb to help you sort this issue out is to calculate the needed space by referring to the pet’s dimensions. This way, you can rest assured knowing that the purchased product is good enough for the job.
Versatility
Moreover, a good product has to be versatile. From this point of view, it is important that the chosen item can be used both for indoor housing and the natural environment. This has to do with the fact that tortoises need to be kept in natural sunlight from time to time due to the fact that UVB rays are beneficial to their overall health.
A reliable model that is also versatile has to have two different parts, one that offers protection and coverage and an open space that ensures that the pet doesn’t wander off unattended. However, there are equally practical models that are fence shaped.
Likewise, some models can also be used while playing with other pets such as cats or dogs, a feature that is particularly useful for households that shelter different types of pets.
Safety
Another crucial aspect that should be considered when out shopping for a tortoise enclosure is safety. Because the pet’s safety is probably the highest priority according to the owners, making sure that the chosen model is safe is a step that must be taken.
Therefore, before ordering anything, one should take the time to verify whether or not the device is well built or not. Also, features such as durability and reliability should be checked. A good way to do so is by reading the online reviews left by previous buyers of the model. So, don’t waste any more time and start reading!
Helpful info
Last but not least, it is important that all tortoise owners are aware of the fact that when it comes to these pets, a habitat is not complete without quality substrate. Because tortoises love to have fun burying themselves in fluffy bedding, it is crucial that you take the time to investigate and find out what type of substrate works best with your type of pet.
Additionally, lighting and the level of moisture should also be subjects for you to get familiar with before arranging a habitat for a tortoise.
Ease of use
If you are a novice, the tortoise house that you purchase should be simple to set up and use. For added convenience, it should provide you with easy access to the pet. Moreover, it should come provided with clear installation instructions that are simple to follow.
One way to ensure that you have selected such a tortoise house is to take a close look at what prior buyers of the product had to say. While doing so, you should also look for info concerning the durability of the habitat, as a model manufactured out of quality materials is likely to pass the test of time.
Cleaning
To make sure that the tortoise habitat that you have selected is suitable for your pet, you have to take the time to clean it regularly. In other words, you have to clean the uneaten food and the droppings of your pet regularly.
Moreover, you have to rinse the water and food bowls that you are using daily. If you have acquired a vivarium to use as a tortoise enclosure, it is recommended that you utilize a pet-safe disinfectant to clean it regularly. Additionally, you have to replace the soiled substrate as often as possible.
Temperature
Many beginner tortoise owners often forget that these enclosures need to be fitted with a UVB light. This is necessary because tortoises are cold-blooded. If you fail to invest in a special light of this type, there is a high chance that your beloved pet will develop a metabolic bone disease.
This happens when the pets are unable to correctly synthesize vitamin D. The main symptom associated with a metabolic bone disease is lethargy and a loss of appetite. If you notice this in your pet, you should contact your vet.
The UVA/UVB lighting device that you purchase should be kept on for about 10 to 12 hours daily. The bulbs on a product of this sort have to be replaced as the UV output that they provide will decrease with use.
Outdoor access
As the specialists argue, apart from an indoor habitat, you should provide your outdoor tortoise with access to outdoor accommodation, when the weather is suitable. Moreover, when the pet is outdoor, you have to make sure that it is supplied with the needed food.
When you install an outdoor enclosure for your pet, you have to make sure that your tortoise stays in an accommodation that is predator-proof. To protect your pet, the selected tortoise habitat has to be fully covered, especially if your pet is small in size.
Temperature
As you probably know, the temperature inside the tortoise enclosure that you set up for your pet has to be controlled. Depending on the type of tortoise that you own, the pet might require a different temperature setting.
For instance, Greek tortoises need a daytime temperature that varies from 75 to 105 Fahrenheit degrees. At nighttime, the temperature within the habitat should be between 65 to 75 Fahrenheit degrees.
In the case of Russian tortoises, they require a temperature that ranges from 70 to 100 Fahrenheit degrees during the day. During the night, they should be provided with an environment that has a temperature between 65 and 75 degrees.
A good way to keep a close eye on the temperature inside the enclosure is by installing a high-quality thermometer.
As expected, there are many heating items that you can use to keep your pet comfortable. For example, you can purchase heating mats and pads, ceramic heaters, or heat bulbs. Each of these options comes with pros and cons. This is why, before you make a purchase, you have to be familiar with the needs of your pet. Its size is also a factor that you should not neglect when making a decision.
Climate control
No matter the type of tortoise habitat that you select, it is important that the habitat is damp and toasty. Once again, the amount of heat and humidity inside the tortoise house depends on the breed. This is why you must do some research to understand the characteristics of the natural environment of your pet.
In general, Russian tortoises thrive in warm, slightly drier environments that have a humidity of around 50%. On the other hand, Greek tortoises enjoy more humid environments.
Décor
To ensure that your pet feels comfortable in the tortoise enclosure that you have selected, you should purchase some items of décor. From this point of view, it is best that you invest in plants and sticks that are edible. Plastic plants should be avoided as they can cause tummy issues when ingested.
Moreover, you should also avoid investing in steep pieces of décor that might cause your pet to lose balance. All the décor items that you install in the enclosure have to be thoroughly cleaned at least once a month.
Health warnings
Once you install your pet in its new tortoise enclosure, you have to spend the following couple of days assessing its overall health state. With this in mind, there are a couple of symptoms that you should look for such as swollen joints, loss of appetite, shell discoloration, runny stools, weight loss, nose, mouth, and eye discharge.
If you notice that your beloved companion displays any or a combination of these symptoms, it is imperative that you contact your local vet and that you take it for a consultation.
Even more importantly, if you do not have a vet, it is recommended that you look for one that specializes in reptile care. This way, you can be sure that he/she will be able to correctly assess the health of your pet and provide it with the needed specialized care.
If you don’t know much about how to take care of a tortoise, it is best that you go online and look for tortoise care forums. This way, you can chat with experienced owners that can supply you with added info on how to look after your beloved companion.
Bibliography:
1) Considerations for outdoor tortoise enclosures
2) Natural history of the tortoise
3) Your tortoise’s outdoor enclosure
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