One of the most important factors in determining the proper bearded dragon food diet is to pay attention to the size of the items that your pet eats. Foods should not be wider than the space between your dragon’s eyes as they can cause impaction, put pressure on its spine, and pose mobility issues. Make sure to keep the size of insects and fruits to a minimum. A good rule of thumb is to feed them at least one per inch.
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Cilantro
One question resounding in the minds of pet owners is whether cilantro is safe for lizards. Bearded dragons are not well-equipped to digest the tough parts of plants. Incorporating cilantro in a beardie’s diet can be problematic, but there are some easy ways to limit its intake. First, use a high-quality feeding bowl that is elevated. Secondly, place plants such as cilantro out of reach. Finally, cooking cilantro reduces its toxicity, but do not use it as a replacement for fresh herb.
Zucchini
A high-fiber food like zucchini is a great treat for your pet bearded dragon. It’s also a good source of vitamin K, which helps with bone formation and chemical reactions involved in blood coagulation. This vitamin is also essential for the activation of proteins required for healthy bone mineralization. These benefits are not only beneficial for your pet, but for you, too. So, why is zucchini good for beardie dragons?
Raspberries
Raspberries are an excellent addition to a bearded dragon’s diet. Rather than being chewed, these berries can be fed to a bearded dragon from your finger or a dish. Before offering raspberries to your beardie, make sure to thoroughly wash them. You should also avoid giving frozen fruit because the freezing process destroys most of the nutrients. Make sure to consult a local vet if you have any questions.
Cabbage
The best way to add a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables to your bearded dragon food diet is to provide the animal with cabbage. Begin by purchasing a fresh head of cabbage and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. You can mix chopped cabbage with other fruits and vegetables, but avoid feeding it with its stalk. After you’ve cut up the cabbage, mix it with other fresh foods and present it in a shallow dish.
Earthworms
While some bearded dragons will happily eat earthworms, other types of insects may pose a health risk. These insects are composed of up to 90% water and can cause stomach upsets. They are best fed in small portions, and the size should be the same as the distance between the eyes of your beardie. You should avoid giving your beardie a regular supply of mealworms because they’re high in fat and can make your reptile sick.
Worms
While crickets are a staple food for most reptiles, they’re difficult to keep, can jump out of containers, and die easily. Worms are also more likely to carry parasites than other feeders, so keep fecal examinations as regular as possible. If your dragon seems lethargy or loses its appetite, it may be infected with parasites.
Calcium
There are many methods of ensuring that your bearded dragon gets enough calcium. A spray containing calcium can be used to put the correct amount into your dragon’s food. One method is to sprinkle supplemental calcium powder into its water. This calcium supplement is safe for your beardie to eat because it is in a powder form that is unpalatable to your pet. Another way to provide calcium to your beardie is to dust calcium-dusted insects onto his or her regular food.
Fruits
Some people believe that fruit is essential for bearded dragons, and in fact, fruits can make a great diet for them. Cucumbers are a great option, and while they may look like a simple treat, the cucumber peel is a good source of Vitamin K and calcium. Cucumbers are also a good source of water, and the beardies will love them! To prepare these treats, simply wash and cut them up.
