May 12, 2023

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?

We have come so far with our love for reptiles and our concern about their health. A well-researched answer is important that can bearded dragons eat strawberries . We like this fruit a lot because these healthy snacks have sweetness with a subtle tanginess and are also a great source of antioxidants. Think, Does a bearded dragon love to eat them? Yes, they enjoy eating this hydrated juicy fruit once a month with a balanced moderation.

It offers different vitamins and minerals to them. It is fun to offer them with this nutritious snack. When you are up to adding some berries to your pet’s bowl keep some important considerations in mind. Bearded  Dragon can eat or other Fruits. As a reptile lover and caretaker I Olivia Eva know how important it is to share accurate care information.

Keep reading more for better knowledge and experience. This guide will let you know about the benefits of strawberries, how often you should give them, and the potential risks with their maintenance.

NOTE: A balanced diet for an adult bearded dragon should be about 80% plant-based and 20% animal-based.

Read more : Can Bearded Dragons Eat Oranges?

The Bearded Dragon Menu

With the expertise of our reptile nutritionist David Foster, we recommend a diet full of different nutrients. It will be great if you offer leafy greens like radish greens with a bitter and spicy taste, mustard with a great source of vitamin K, and turnip greens. You can supplement them with vegetables such as bell peppers, squash, and occasional carrots.

For protein, gut-loaded insects like crickets and mealworms are essential. Treat your pet with different fruits, veggies, and protein sources along with strawberries.

NOTE: Moderation ensures optimal health and prevents dietary imbalances in these beloved reptiles.

What Type of Bearded Dragons Can Eat Strawberries?

Strawberries are a tasty treat and a delightful addition to the diet of various bearded dragon species, such as the

Usually, all of them like to eat strawberries.

Can Baby Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?

Around the age of six months, introduce baby dragons to strawberries gradually. Start with small, bite-sized pieces. Provide a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of insects and vegetables. Strawberries should be offered as a treat rather than a staple food.

Baby bearded dragons have smaller digestive systems. This causes difficulty in digesting large pieces of fruit. Limit strawberries to around 5% or less of the baby dragon

Young bearded dragons should primarily eat protein-rich insects, and you should give fleshy fruits like strawberries.

NOTE: Fruits should only make up a small portion of a baby bearded dragon’s diet, typically around 10% or less.

Read more : Can Bearded Dragons Eat Onions?

How Often Can Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?

Eating too many strawberries can mess with their digestion. This also makes them gain too much weight, which isn’t good for them.

The best amount of strawberries is to give them only once or twice a week. This way, they can enjoy the tasty treat without any bad side effects.

How To Prepare Strawberries for Bearded Dragons?

Preparing strawberries for your bearded dragon is straightforward. Here is how:

  1. Choose ripe strawberries: Pick strawberries that are ripe, firm, and brightly red-colored. Avoid any that are overripe, moldy, or rotting.
  2. Wash the strawberries: Give the strawberries a good rinse with clean water to get rid of any dirt or debris. This ensures that you don’t transfer any harmful chemicals or bacteria to your pet.
  3. Remove the stems: Use a knife or scissors to cut off the stems from the strawberries. This makes it easier for your bearded dragon to eat. Remember, you can also offer them leaves. Just ensure they’re safe and your pet feels good after eating them.
  4. Cut the strawberries into small pieces: Slice the strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier for your bearded dragon to munch on them comfortably.
  5. Mash the strawberries: Alternatively, you can mash the strawberries into a pulp. This can make digestion easier for your bearded dragon.

Expert Tip: Ensure your bearded dragon eats veggies too by limiting its strawberry intake. Because it is not for everyday treat. Do not worry, it is common for them to prefer strawberries – but a balanced diet is key.

What are the Benefits of Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?

Following are the benefits of bearded dragons eating juicy and nourishing strawberries.

1. Vitamin C Booster

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for the health of bearded dragons. Adequate intake of vitamin C supports their immune system, helping them fight off infections and illnesses.

2. Fiber

Strawberries contain dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help prevent constipation in bearded dragons. A healthy digestive system is crucial for overall well-being. Bearded dragons love to eat those tiny seeds of strawberries.

3. Hydration

In addition to their nutritional value, strawberries keep your bearded dragon hydrated. They are over 90% water, which can help prevent dehydration and keep your pet healthy and happy.

4. Antioxidant Support

The antioxidants present in strawberries can help neutralize harmful free radicals in the bearded dragon’s body, reducing the risk of oxidative stress-related damage to cells and tissues.

5. Eye Health

The presence of antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin in strawberries can promote eye health in bearded dragons. These compounds help protect the eyes from damage caused by UV radiation and age-related degeneration.

Pro Tip: Keep your pet bearded dragon healthy by providing it with proper nutrition and care. Prevent metabolic bone disease, a common illness among these pets, with ease. [BY David Foster]

Read more : Can bearded dragons eat collard greens?

Nutritional Value of Strawberries Per 100 grams

Here is a table summarizing the nutritional value of strawberries per 100 grams

Nutrient  Amount
Carbohydrates 7.7 g
Potassium 153 mg
Manganese 0.4 mg
Vitamin C 58.8 mg
Vitamin K 2.2 µg
Protein 0.7 g
Sugars 4.9 g
Fiber 2.0 g
Fat 0.3 g

Risks Of Feeding Strawberries to Bearded Dragons

Consider the potential risks before introducing strawberries to your bearded dragon’s diet. While strawberries can offer some nutritional benefits, there are also some risks to be aware of.

Oxalates

Strawberries contain oxalates that take away calcium from bearded dragons, which is not good for them. If they eat too many strawberries or other foods with oxalates, it can hurt their bones. This can lead to a serious condition called metabolic bone disease. So, while giving them a strawberry snack now and then is okay, you need to make sure they do not eat too much.

Digestive Issues

Bearded dragons are very sensitive animals. Feeding them too often strawberries can lead to diarrhea and gas. In more severe cases, this can cause dehydration and other health problems.

Gastrointestinal Upset

Bearded dragons have sensitive digestive systems, and introducing new foods, including strawberries, too quickly or in large quantities can lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as diarrhea or vomiting.

Allergic Reactions

A variety of bearded dragons may exhibit an allergy to strawberries or other fruits, manifested as

  • Pruritus
  • Edema
  • Dyspnea

If your beard dragon shows an allergic reaction with any symptoms, run to the veterinarian right away.

Choking Hazard

Large pieces of strawberry can be dangerous to swallow resulting in choking. Chop the fruit into small, bite-sized pieces that will conveniently fit in your dragon’s mouth.

Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections, often caused by inadequate temperature and humidity levels in the enclosure or exposure to pathogens, can affect bearded dragons. Symptoms may include wheezing, nasal discharge, labored breathing, and lethargy..

Read more : Can Bearded Dragons Eat Grub Worms?

FAQs

Are Frozen Strawberries Safe for Bearded Dragons?

When offering frozen ones, make sure they are completely thawed and have no added sugars or preservatives. It will be good practice to offer them fresh strawberries.

Can I Feed Dried Strawberries to My Bearded Dragon?

Dried strawberries have a higher concentration of sugars. They also contain preservatives which are not good for your pet.

Conclusion

Strawberries form one of the bearded dragons’ fancied delicacies in the course of whatever they eat. Strawberries offer a dose of good health for them in the form of vitamin C and antioxidants. Keep in mind that too many strawberries can make their stomach upset or make them obese.

The diet of bearded dragons is quite varied including vegetables and fruits. Proper nutrition means that they should consume the entire balance of all the food types. It means, adding to their delicacies small insects, colored veggies, and leafy greens, too. In that way, they will be always fit and healthy just as you want them to be!

Have you tried feeding strawberries to your bearded dragon? We would love to hear about your experiences and any tips you have for safely incorporating them into their diet. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below and do not forget to share this post with fellow bearded dragon enthusiasts who might benefit from this information. Happy feeding!

Olivia Eva
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