Bearded dragons are native to central Australia’s hot woodlands and deserts. They are now commonly found in pet shops worldwide. These lizards have a long lifespan and are easy to care for. They are friendly and often form close bonds with their owners. As these reptiles become more domesticated, it’s important to understand their dietary needs. What should they eat? Can they have fruits? Are strawberries safe for them? What about vegetables? Are they carnivores? As their owners, we must ensure they receive the right nutrition.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?
Bearded dragons can eat strawberries, and they enjoy the sweet taste. However, strawberries aren’t a regular part of their diet due to their low nutritional value for such a large reptile. Still, they do offer some essential nutrients.
As omnivores, bearded dragons eat both plants and meat. Their diet should provide adequate protein, fats, and carbohydrates to maintain their health. They also need vitamins and minerals, which are best sourced from natural foods. Supplements can be used if necessary.
A bearded dragon’s diet varies depending on its age, maturity, and weight. If you’re unsure about the right diet for your pet, consult a veterinarian.
How Often Can Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?
Bearded dragons should not be fed strawberries every day because they contain high levels of sugar, phosphorus, and acidity. Regular consumption can lead to stomach upset and other health problems. Offering strawberries as an occasional treat, about once a month, is fine. Their diet should consist of 50% plant-based and 50% animal-based foods, with 10% of it being fruit. Along with strawberries, bearded dragons can enjoy a variety of fruits like apples, pears, apricots, bananas, blueberries, grapes, guava, kiwi, papaya, and more.
2 Benefits of Strawberries for Bearded Dragons
Antioxidants Reduce Cancer Risk
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce cancer risk in bearded dragons by increasing free radical production and preventing cell damage. These antioxidants offer many health benefits for your pet.
In addition, strawberries provide essential nutrients like vitamin C, D3, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Vitamin C supports vision and boosts the immune system, while calcium strengthens bones and tissue.
Calcium and vitamin D3 are crucial for bearded dragons and should be included regularly in their diet. You can dust their food with calcium powder to ensure they get enough of these vital nutrients.
Fiber Helps in Keeping Bearded Dragons Full for a Long Time
Strawberries contain much more fiber than most fruits. Fiber aids in satiety, keeping your dragon’s stomach full longer. It also supports smooth digestion and a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
The dark, leafy greens of strawberries are packed with nutrients and fiber. These greens are beneficial for your lizard, as they require 20-25% fiber and dry matter in their diet. Fiber also helps bulk them up.
2 Risks of Feeding Strawberries to Bearded Dragons
A High Phosphorus to Calcium Ratio Must be Maintained to Avoid MBD
Calcium is crucial for your bearded dragon’s bone development and overall health. One cup of strawberries contains 23 grams of calcium and 36 grams of phosphorus. However, feeding foods high in phosphorus can reduce calcium absorption. Monitor their diet to ensure it is rich in calcium and low in phosphorus. Too much phosphorus can hinder calcium absorption, leading to Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). This condition can cause chronic pain, paralysis, and deformities in bone structure and growth.
High Quantity of Sugar Causes Digestive Problems
Strawberries are naturally sweet due to their high sugar content. However, too much sugar can lead to digestive problems and other health issues for your reptile. Consuming sugar regularly can spike blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of diabetes. High fructose intake can also cause obesity in animals. Additionally, it can lead to tooth decay or even tooth loss.
While strawberries are hydrating due to their high water content, excessive water can result in diarrhea. This may ultimately dehydrate your bearded dragon.
How to Prepare Strawberries for your Bearded Dragon?
Check and Wash the Strawberries
Since strawberries grow on the ground, they may have dirt from the harvesting process, which can cause some to be damaged, squashed, or rotten. Inspect the strawberries for any dirt, then wash them under running water to remove particles. Soaking them in warm water for 30 minutes to an hour can help remove pesticide residues on the skin. Alternatively, you can purchase organic strawberries, which are grown without chemicals.
Cut the Strawberry Into Small Pieces
Bearded dragons are large creatures, and eating a whole strawberry in one bite is not an issue. However, it’s better to cut the fruit in half to help them chew more easily and reduce the risk of choking.
Put the Food in an Appropriate Bowl
These reptiles may struggle with eating at times. To make it easier, place the food in a shallow bowl, allowing them to put their head in and eat easily. If your lizard is avoiding veggies or greens, try placing a strawberry on top of the food to encourage them.
Conclusion
Yes, bearded dragons can eat strawberries. It’s safe for them, but only give strawberries as an occasional treat, about once a month. Giving them too often can lead to health issues like stomach aches, obesity, or more serious conditions such as MBD or tooth decay.
Strawberries are full of beneficial nutrients like antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin D3, calcium, and magnesium. These are essential for your bearded dragon’s health. The leaves of the strawberry plant are also safe for them to eat, and even the seeds are healthy.
Make sure to offer a balanced diet consisting of plants, vegetables, and meat. This ensures your dragon gets all the nutrients it needs. If you have doubts, consult a local veterinarian for specific dietary advice.
FAQs
Can baby bearded dragons eat strawberries?
Yes, baby bearded dragons can eat strawberries. A quarter of a strawberry is sufficient for a baby bearded dragon.
How many strawberries can bearded dragons eat?
An adult bearded dragon can eat a whole strawberry. Younger bearded dragons should be given half a strawberry, while baby bearded dragons should only have a quarter.
Are strawberries good for bearded dragons?
Yes, strawberries are good for bearded dragons. They provide vitamin C, D3, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Additionally, they are rich in antioxidants.
Can bearded dragons eat strawberry leaves?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat strawberry leaves. They are safe for them and offer some nutritional benefits. The entire strawberry plant is edible.
Can bearded dragons eat strawberry seeds?
Bearded dragons can safely eat strawberry seeds. They are healthy, edible, and small enough to pose no harm.
Can bearded dragons eat strawberries every day?
You should not feed strawberries to bearded dragons every day. They should only be given as a treat, about once a month.