Bearded dragons are a popular pet reptile that many people love to keep. They are known for their docile nature, unique appearance, and ease of care. One question that often arises when it comes to feeding them is whether or not they can eat fruit.
The answer is yes, bearded dragons can eat fruit, but it should be done in moderation. While they are primarily insectivores, they also enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables. However, it is important to note that not all fruits are safe for them to eat, and some can even be harmful. In this article, we will explore the types of fruit that are safe for bearded dragons to eat, as well as the ones they should avoid.
Blueberries
Nutritional Value
Blueberries are a nutritious fruit that can be offered to bearded dragons as an occasional treat. They are low in calories and high in antioxidants, making them a great addition to the diet of these reptiles. Blueberries are also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber.
However, it is important to note that blueberries are not a good source of calcium. Bearded dragons require a diet that is high in calcium to maintain their bone health, and a diet that is low in calcium can lead to metabolic bone disease. Therefore, blueberries should not be a staple food in a bearded dragon’s diet.
Blueberries also contain oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption in the body. This can further contribute to a calcium deficiency. Therefore, bearded dragons should not consume large amounts of blueberries or other fruits that are high in oxalates.
In terms of sugar content, blueberries are relatively low in sugar compared to other fruits. However, they still contain some sugar, so they should be offered in moderation.
Overall, blueberries can be a nutritious and tasty treat for bearded dragons, but they should not be a staple food in their diet due to their low calcium content and high oxalate content.
Watermelon
Hydration
Watermelon is a juicy fruit that can help keep bearded dragons hydrated. It is composed of about 92% water, which makes it an excellent source of hydration for your pet. Bearded dragons require a lot of water to maintain their health, and watermelon can be a great way to supplement their water intake.
Sugar Content
While watermelon is a great source of hydration, it is also high in sugar. Bearded dragons should not consume too much sugar, as it can lead to health problems such as obesity and diabetes. It is important to feed watermelon to your pet in moderation to avoid any negative health effects.
When feeding watermelon to your bearded dragon, it is important to remove the seeds and rind, as they can be difficult for your pet to digest. You can cut the fruit into small pieces and offer it as a treat once or twice a week.
In addition to hydration, watermelon contains vitamin C and antioxidants, which can provide additional health benefits for your bearded dragon. However, it is important to remember that fruits should only make up a small part of your pet’s diet, and should not be the primary source of nutrition.
Blackberries
Nutritional Value
Blackberries are a delicious fruit that can be fed to bearded dragons as an occasional treat. They are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, but they are also high in sugar. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional value of blackberries:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
|---|---|
| Calories | 43 |
| Water | 88% |
| Protein | 1.4g |
| Fat | 0.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 9.6g |
| Fiber | 5.3g |
| Sugar | 4.9g |
| Calcium | 29mg |
| Magnesium | 20mg |
| Vitamin C | 21mg |
| Vitamin A | 214IU |
| Antioxidants | Yes |
Blackberries are relatively low in calcium and have a high phosphorus to calcium ratio. This means that they should not be a staple food in a bearded dragon’s diet, as a high phosphorus to calcium ratio can lead to metabolic bone disease. However, they can be fed occasionally as a treat.
Blackberries also contain oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption. This means that they should not be fed in large quantities. Additionally, it is important to wash blackberries thoroughly before feeding them to a bearded dragon, as they may contain pesticides.
In conclusion, blackberries can be a nutritious treat for bearded dragons when fed in moderation. They are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, but should not be a staple food due to their high sugar content and low calcium levels.
Pineapple
Pineapple is a sweet tropical fruit that is enjoyed by many. However, can bearded dragons eat pineapple? The answer is yes, but only in moderation.
Bromelain
Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain that can aid in digestion. However, too much bromelain can cause gastrointestinal upset for bearded dragons. It is important to note that the bromelain content in pineapple decreases as the fruit ripens.
Nutritional Value
Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, which is important for the immune system. It also contains small amounts of vitamin A, calcium, and magnesium. However, pineapple is high in sugar and should not be a regular part of a bearded dragon’s diet.
Water Content
Pineapple has a high water content, which can be beneficial for bearded dragons who may not drink enough water. However, it is important to note that too much water can also be harmful to bearded dragons.
Pesticides
It is important to choose organic pineapple to avoid exposing your bearded dragon to harmful pesticides.
Overall, pineapple can be a nutritious treat for bearded dragons when given in moderation. It is important to consider the sugar content and bromelain levels when feeding pineapple to your bearded dragon.
Bananas
Potassium
Bananas are a popular fruit that many people enjoy. They are also a fruit that can be fed to bearded dragons, but only in moderation. Bananas are high in potassium, which is an important nutrient for bearded dragons. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure and maintain healthy muscle and nerve function.
However, too much potassium can be harmful to bearded dragons. An excess of potassium can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition where the body has too much potassium in the blood. This can cause muscle weakness, heart problems, and even death in severe cases.
Therefore, it is important to feed bananas to bearded dragons in moderation. A small piece of banana once a week is sufficient. Bearded dragons should not be fed bananas every day or in large quantities.
In addition to potassium, bananas also contain a variety of other nutrients, including calcium, vitamins, and antioxidants. However, they are also high in sugar and should be fed sparingly to bearded dragons.
Overall, bananas can be a nutritious addition to a bearded dragon’s diet when fed in moderation. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of feeding too much potassium and sugar to bearded dragons.
Apples
Fiber
Apples are a nutritious fruit that can be fed to bearded dragons. They are a good source of fiber that can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. The fiber in apples can also promote a feeling of fullness, which can help prevent overeating and obesity in bearded dragons.
However, apples should be fed in moderation as they also contain sugar. Too much sugar can lead to health problems such as obesity and diabetes in bearded dragons. It is recommended to feed apples as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.
In addition to fiber, apples also contain vitamins such as vitamin C and antioxidants that can help boost the immune system. They also contain minerals such as magnesium and potassium that can help maintain healthy bones and muscles.
It is important to note that apples should be washed thoroughly before feeding to remove any pesticides or other harmful chemicals that may be present on the skin. It is also recommended to remove the seeds and core of the apple as they can be a choking hazard for bearded dragons.
Overall, apples can be a nutritious and tasty treat for bearded dragons when fed in moderation. They can provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals that can help maintain a healthy diet and prevent health problems.
Strawberries
Nutritional Value
Strawberries are a sweet and juicy fruit that can be a great addition to a bearded dragon’s diet. They are low in fat and high in nutrients, making them a nutritious snack. Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage caused by free radicals.
While strawberries are a good source of vitamins and minerals, they should be fed in moderation. They are high in sugar content, which can lead to obesity and other health problems if consumed in excess. Bearded dragons should not be fed more than one or two strawberries per week.
Strawberries also contain oxalates, which can bind to calcium in the body and prevent it from being absorbed. This can lead to calcium deficiency, which can cause metabolic bone disease. To prevent this, bearded dragons should be fed a diet that is high in calcium and has a proper calcium to phosphorus ratio.
It is also important to ensure that the strawberries are pesticide-free, as pesticides can be harmful to bearded dragons. Washing the strawberries thoroughly before feeding them to the dragon can help remove any pesticides that may be present.
Overall, strawberries can be a nutritious addition to a bearded dragon’s diet when fed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Peaches
Nutritional Value
Peaches are a sweet, juicy fruit that many people enjoy. But can bearded dragons eat peaches? The answer is yes, but only in moderation.
Peaches are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber. However, they are also high in sugar, which can be problematic for bearded dragons. Bearded dragons require a low-sugar diet, so feeding them too many peaches can lead to health problems.
In terms of calcium, peaches are not a good source. Bearded dragons require a diet that is high in calcium, so it is important to supplement their diet with calcium-rich foods such as leafy greens, crickets, and calcium powder.
Peaches also contain antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and protect against disease. However, it is important to note that peaches can be sprayed with pesticides, so it is best to choose organic peaches whenever possible.
Overall, while peaches can be a nutritious addition to a bearded dragon’s diet, they should be fed in moderation due to their high sugar content. It is important to balance their diet with calcium-rich foods to ensure their health and well-being.
Fruits which are Toxic to Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons are omnivorous and enjoy a wide variety of fruits. However, some fruits can be harmful to them. It is important to know which fruits are safe and which are not, to avoid any potential health risks.
Here are some fruits that are toxic to bearded dragons:
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain high levels of citric acid, which can cause digestive problems and even lead to kidney failure in bearded dragons.
- Avocado: Avocados contain a toxin called persin, which can be fatal to bearded dragons. It can cause heart damage, respiratory problems, and even death.
- Rhubarb: Rhubarb contains oxalic acid, which can bind with calcium and prevent its absorption by the body. This can lead to metabolic bone disease in bearded dragons.
- Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in bearded dragons. Even a small amount can be toxic.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain solanine, which can cause digestive problems and even death in bearded dragons.
In conclusion, bearded dragons should not be fed these fruits as they can be harmful to their health. It is important to research and consult with a veterinarian before feeding any new food to your bearded dragon to ensure their safety.
Check with Veterinarian before Changing diet of your Beardie
Before making any changes to your bearded dragon’s diet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian who has experience with reptiles. While many fruits are safe for bearded dragons to eat, some may cause health problems if consumed in large quantities or too frequently.
Bearded dragons require a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods, including insects, vegetables, and fruits. However, the amount and frequency of fruit in their diet should be carefully monitored. Too much fruit can lead to health problems such as diarrhea or obesity.
Additionally, some fruits are high in oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent it from being absorbed by the body. This can lead to metabolic bone disease, a serious condition that can cause deformities and other health problems.
A veterinarian can help you determine the appropriate amount and frequency of fruit to include in your bearded dragon’s diet based on their age, size, and overall health. They can also recommend specific types of fruit that are safe for your bearded dragon to eat.
Overall, while fruit can be a healthy addition to your bearded dragon’s diet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to their diet. This will help ensure that your bearded dragon stays healthy and happy for years to come.