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Feeding a Bearded Dragon

Have you recently adopted a beardie? Congratulations! These cute little lizards are very personable. Of course, like any other pet, beardies have specific dietary care needs. A Lexington, KY vet discusses feeding a beardie below.

Basics

Bearded dragons eat both plants and insects. The majority of your pet’s protein will come from live bugs. Many pet beardies get crickets, but you can also give your pint-sized dragon dubia roaches. Adult beardies can also enjoy the occasional mealworms as a special treat. Only give your pet store-bought bugs. Wild insects may be contaminated by pesticides. They could also be carrying parasites or diseases. You’ll also need to dust your pet’s bugs with nutritional powder. 

Supplements

Your dragon will likely benefit from taking supplements. Calcium, vitamin D, and multivitamins are the ones most often recommended. Ask your vet for more information.

Fruits And Veggies

You can also give your pet dinosaur some fruits and veggies. Ask your vet for specific recommendations. You may find that your reptilian buddy has his own tastes. Offer your lizard a variety, and pay attention to what he seems to like. Most beardies will go for a lot of green leafy veggies, such as dandelion, mustard greens, collard greens, kale, and endive. You can also offer yellow, red, and orange veggies, such as bell peppers, carrots, and butternut squash. Avoid offering iceberg lettuce, as it has no nutritional value.

Fruits are high in sugar, but they can make good treats, as long as you don’t go overboard. You can also mix them with greens. This can be helpful in getting your beardie to eat his veggies. Some good options are strawberries, grapes, tomatoes, peaches, figs, dates, and apricots.

Flowers

Did you know that your lizard pal can eat flowers? Dandelions, roses, carnations, and geraniums are all fine. Not all flowers are safe, so be sure to do some research before offering them to your pet. Also, don’t give your beardie any flowers that have been treated with pesticides.

Age

Your bearded dragon’s nutritional needs will change over time. Consult your vet regularly.

Water

Dehydration can be an issue with beardies. Make sure your reptilian friend always has fresh water. Your beardie will also benefit from regular soaks. Ask your vet for specific advice.

Please reach out with any questions about bearded dragon care. As your Lexington, KY veterinary clinic, we’re here to help!

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