Pogona is a genus of reptiles with six species, commonly known as bearded dragons. These medium-sized lizards are native to Australia’s deserts and woodlands.
Reptile ownership has become more common, and bearded dragons make excellent pets. They are friendly and affectionate and bond well with their caretakers. However, knowing how to feed them can be tricky. Do they eat fruits? Are vegetables included in their diet? Can bearded dragons eat kale? Understanding their nutritional needs is crucial for providing proper care.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Kale?
Bearded dragons can eat kale, as it provides essential vitamins and minerals. Kale is a nutritious dark green vegetable that complements their diet well. As omnivores, bearded dragons eat both plant-based and animal-based foods.
Along with kale, you can offer them fruits, vegetables, and insects like potatoes, asparagus, locusts, and red pepper. A varied diet ensures your bearded dragon receives the nutrients to stay healthy and active.
How Often Can Bearded Dragons Eat Kale?
Bearded dragons can eat kale 2-3 times a week as part of a balanced diet. Avoid feeding it daily, as overfeeding kale can harm your pet’s health. The recommended serving size for an adult bearded dragon is 20 grams of kale. Several types of kale are safe for them, with curly kale being the most common. Researching the different kale types, their benefits, and risks before introducing them to your pet is essential. If unsure, consult a veterinarian to ensure you feed your bearded dragon the right foods.
2 Benefits of Kale for Bearded Dragons
Calcium for Bones and Tissues Development
Kale is high in essential calcium, which is crucial for bone growth and tissue development. Without enough calcium, your lizard may develop Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). Providing the right amount of calcium consistently can be challenging, but supplements can help prevent deficiencies.
Vitamins and Minerals Aids in the Body Functioning
Kale is packed with vitamins K and C and essential minerals that help the body function optimally. The antioxidants in kale support your reptile’s immune system. They also promote better eyesight and reproduction in bearded dragons. Vitamin K is crucial for blood health, as it prevents blood clots. Potassium is essential for muscle growth, kidney function, and reducing water retention. Manganese supports metabolic health, while magnesium plays a role in brain and physical health.
3 Risks of Kale for Bearded Dragons
Oxalates Prevent Calcium Absorption
Oxalate is a compound found in plants. A 100g serving of kale contains about 20mg of oxalate. Small amounts of oxalate pose no issue for bearded dragons, but too much can bind with calcium, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. This can lead to a calcium deficiency, which is critical for these lizards. To avoid this, offer foods with small amounts of oxalate 1-2 times per week.
Goitrogens Can Cause Thyroid Problems
Goitrogens are substances found in kale. Excessive amounts can interfere with thyroid function, causing an enlarged thyroid and disrupting hormone production. They can also hinder iodine absorption. Since goitrogens are present in many vegetables, feeding your dragon small, measured portions is best.
Vitamin A Toxicity Can Cause Brittle Bones
Overconsuming vitamin A can lead to hypervitaminosis A, which weakens bones and harms your pet’s health. When a bearded dragon ingests too much vitamin A, it becomes toxic. Symptoms of toxicity include inflammation, dehydration, lethargy, and weight loss. If left untreated, this can lead to Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). MBD may cause your bearded dragon’s limbs to become deformed; in severe cases, paralysis may occur.
How to Prepare Kale for Your Bearded Dragon?
Wash the Leaves
Always wash your vegetables and fruits thoroughly, as they are often treated with pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals to promote faster growth. It’s essential to use fresh kale. Avoid feeding your bearded dragon kale that is wilting, slightly brown, or old.
Soak the kale leaves in warm water for an hour to help remove chemicals. After soaking, wash the leaves in a bowl of water. Repeat this process 2-3 times to remove all dirt and particles. Discard the water after each wash.
Chop the Kale
After washing the kale, remove the long stalks or stems by cutting them away. Then, cut the leaves into small, bite-sized pieces, making it easier for your bearded dragon to pick them up and eat. This also helps prevent choking. Feed the kale raw, as cooking can destroy its nutrients.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons can eat kale, a safe and nutritious food for them. Kale provides a good source of calcium. However, it should only be fed 2-3 times a week. Kale is low in calories and sugar, minimizing the risk of tooth decay, heart problems, diabetes, and obesity.
Avoid feeding kale daily due to its high oxalate and goitrogen content. Excessive intake can lead to health issues like Metabolic Bone Disease, vitamin A toxicity, and thyroid problems.
Ensure your bearded dragon gets a variety of vegetables, fruits, and protein from insects for a balanced diet. Proper nutrition is crucial for their overall health.
FAQs
Can baby bearded dragons eat kale?
Yes, baby bearded dragons can eat kale only once a week. Their diet should mainly consist of insects, along with some greens, veggies, and fruits. Since they are still growing, they require more protein for healthy development.
Is kale a good green for bearded dragons?
Yes, kale is a suitable green for bearded dragons. It provides a good source of calcium while being low in sugar and calories.
What types of kale can bearded dragons eat?
Bearded dragons can eat various types of kale, including Russian kale, Redbor kale, Curly kale, Dinosaur kale, and Siberian kale.
Can bearded dragons eat cooked kale?
Bearded dragons should not eat cooked kale because cooking destroys the nutrients. Always feed your lizard raw kale.
Can bearded dragons eat kale seeds?
No, bearded dragons cannot eat kale seeds because they cannot digest the outer husk or hull of the seed.