Bearded dragons can occasionally eat ripe bananas sparingly as treats, although there is some controversy about the overall nutritional benefits that bananas provide to bearded dragons. According to research, bananas are generally low in necessary nutrients for bearded dragons, so it should not be considered the main diet for these reptiles.
Because of the sugars and carbohydrates found in bananas, too much can lead to illnesses for bearded dragons, such as cystic calculi, metabolic bone disease, or hyperglycemia. It is important to note that, even if serving as a treat, a bearded dragon should never be offered a banana raw, as they are difficult to digest, and can lead to digestive problems.
Rather, a small, peeled, and mashed/pureed banana can be offered, no more than once a week, as a snack in addition to the regular insect diet of a bearded dragon. Additionally, depending on the age and size of the dragon, the amount of banana offered in one sitting can vary, though a smaller dragon should have a much more limited intake.
What fruits can Beardies eat everyday?
Beardies can benefit from a variety of fruits in their diet. Common fruits that Beardies can eat everyday include apples, blueberries, raspberries, mangoes, bananas, melons, pears, strawberries, peaches, plums, figs, kiwis, oranges, and papayas.
As with all fruits, it is important to clean them thoroughly before offering them to your Beardie. All fruits should be given in moderation (in small, bite-sized pieces) as a treat, as too much fruit can adversely affect your Beardie’s digestion.
While most fruits are generally safe for Beardies, there are some that you should avoid, like grapes, raisins, avocados and rhubarb, as they could potentially be toxic to reptiles and can cause digestive issues.
Can I feed my bearded dragon fruit everyday?
No, you shouldn’t feed your bearded dragon fruit every day as it is high in sugar. Fruits should only be offered on occasion as a treat, no more than once or twice a week and should not be a big part of their diet.
Some popular fruits that bearded dragons do enjoy are strawberries, blueberries, and mango. Whenever offering fruit to your bearded dragon, make sure it is cut into small pieces to prevent a choking hazard.
When serving fruit, it is important to remember to remove any uneaten pieces right away and not leave them in the enclosure with your bearded dragon overnight or for extended periods of time as they can cause bacteria to form and harm your bearded dragon.
Bearded dragons should be primarily fed darker leafy greens such as collard greens, kale, and spinach. You should offer other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers to provide variety. Insects like mealworms, crickets, and dubia roaches, which are the most nutritious meal for bearded dragons, should be fed as well.
Will bearded dragons stop eating when full?
Yes, bearded dragons will usually stop eating when they are full. Bearded dragons, like all animals, have a built-in signal that tells them when they have had enough to eat and no longer need food. Overfeeding bearded dragons can lead to serious health issues, including obesity and metabolic bone disease.
It is important to give your bearded dragon an appropriate amount of food each day. The amount of food should be based on the age and size of the dragon. When providing food, it is important to pay attention to their eating habits and whether they are still hungry.
When their appetite decreases and they no longer seem interested in their food, stop feeding and remove any extra food to prevent them from overeating.
How many times a day should I hold my bearded dragon?
It is recommended that you hold your bearded dragon for at least a few minutes every day. The amount of time you should spend holding your bearded dragon will depend on their individual personality and temperament; some may enjoy longer periods of interaction, while others may prefer shorter sessions.
It’s important to spend quality time with your bearded dragon and create a positive bond. To ensure the best results, it is best to hold your bearded dragon for at least a few minutes each day and take the time to observe and get to know your pet.
You can also use the time to socialize your dragon by introducing new objects and activities that they can become familiar with. Remember to be gentle and provide adequate support while you’re holding your dragon and make sure they feel safe and relaxed.
Can you overfeed a bearded dragon?
Yes, you can overfeed a bearded dragon. The most important factor in maintaining a healthy diet in bearded dragons is ensuring they are eating the right amount of food. If they are overfed, it can lead to obesity, which can bring with it a host of health problems.
Bearded dragons should be fed a combination of nutritious greens, vegetables and insects, but these should be limited to about two to three meals a week, with a occasional treat of mealworms and other insects as a special treat.
It’s best to feed smaller portions a few times a week rather than one large meal. This can help you plan and control the amount of food your dragon is getting, which will help you avoid overfeeding. Additionally, make sure to keep a close eye on your dragon’s weight and adjust their diet accordingly.
What fruit is toxic to bearded dragons?
Bearded dragons are very popular pet lizards, and a staple of many reptile collections. However, there are some types of fruits that are toxic to these creatures and should be avoided. The toxic fruits are: grapes, apples, citrus fruits, blackberries, avocado, rhubarb, and cherries.
All of these fruits contain certain compounds that are toxic to them, particularly oxalates and hydrocyanic acid. It is best to avoid feeding your bearded dragon any of these fruits, and if you do give them one of the above, only do so in extremely small amounts and be sure to remove any seeds or pits.
Furthermore, any fresh fruits should be coated with a calcium and multivitamin supplement to prevent them from suffering from vitamin deficiencies.
Is Apple OK for bearded dragons?
Apple is not the ideal snack for bearded dragons. Although they might enjoy the taste of apples, they are not a nutritionally balanced food. Apple has a low calorie and low protein content, and the fiber content can be difficult for a bearded dragon’s digestive system to process.
The acidity of apples can also be irritating to their stomachs. Apples are high in sugar and also contain Vitamin A, but in an amount that is not beneficial for bearded dragons. Apples should only be given to bearded dragons as an occasional treat and in very small quantities.
A piece of apple smaller than their heads should be enough for them to savor the taste of the fruit. As a general rule, bearded dragons should mainly be fed a staple diet of dark leafy greens and small insects.
These will provide them with all the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy.
