Heat question for Russian tort

[Kat1975]

Hello, I will be getting a Russian at some point but first I am going to set up for it. My question is can I use an under the tank heating pad or do I need to use a basking lamp? Reason I am asking is I know my cats will try to get on top of the enclosure and could knock the lamp off. I am trying to figure out best set up along with safety.

Thanks!

 

[Yellow Turtle01]

Welcome to TFO!!!
Don't worry about the kitty There are 7 over here and they hardly EVER bother with my turtles/torts. Sometimes they'll watch the turtles algae sucker, but that;s it
Here is a GREAT care sheet for russians-http://www.tortoiseforum.org/forums/russian-tortoises.81/-you'll learn a bunch about tortoises here! I have to warm you though, them little guys are additive like nothing else... you may start out with one, and end up with way more

 

[johnsonnboswell]

You need to hang a UVB bulb. Under tank heaters are no good, and sometimes dangerous. Tanks are dubious at best.

 

[Delilah1623]

I was going to buy a plant hook that screwed into the wall to hang the light from. That way if the cats bump it it'll just swing and not fall.

 

[Tom]

Your best solution will be to make a closed chamber with all your heating and lighting equipment inside. This way kitties won't have access to it and your tortoise will always be safe.

A closed chamber also makes it much easier and far cheaper to maintain the heat and humidity levels you desire.

 

[leigti]

You can hang the bulb from a lamp stand, zero med and Zillah each sell them I think. Get the kind with the flat base that you can put under the enclosure. The heavy enclosure will keep it from being knocked over. I have to cats and they don't bother the tortoise and closures at all. If they do touch that lamp they'll only touch it once it's hotter then you know what.

 

[Kat1975]

Tom, Do you have a picture or link of how to make an closed chamber? I have never seen one.

Delilah 1623, that sounds like a good idea!

Thanks

 

[Kat1975]

leigti , I will look into the stand as well!