Basking

Can Red-eared Sliders eat Cress?

Trachemys scripta elegans · Lepidium sativum

Caution

Weekly

The Tortoise Table

ReptiFiles and Tortoise Trust list watercress as acceptable for sliders; Cress is comparable but its goitrogenic potential merits moderation. The Tortoise Table orange rating applies and it should supplement rather than anchor the vegetable component.

Feeding frequency

DailyWeeklyOccasionalNever
Caution

Weekly

OmnivoreVegetableLow oxalateNot toxic

The short answer

ReptiFiles and Tortoise Trust list watercress as acceptable for sliders; Cress is comparable but its goitrogenic potential merits moderation. The Tortoise Table orange rating applies and it should supplement rather than anchor the vegetable component.

Feeding it safely

How much / how often

Weekly

Backed by sources

The Tortoise TableThe Tortoise Table

Reviewed by basking_research · June 2026

Basking is here to help you learn — it isn't veterinary advice. For anything specific to your animal, talk to a qualified exotic-animal vet.

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