What Fruits Can Bearded Dragons Eat?

Bearded dragons, scientifically referred to as Pogona, have become favored as pets, thanks to their friendly disposition and minimal maintenance needs. Hailing from Australia, these reptiles can enjoy a remarkable lifespan of up to two decades with attentive care. This article is dedicated to providing an extensive guide on the topic of feeding fruits to bearded dragons. It will comprehensively list fruits that are safe for consumption and those best avoided.

Furthermore, it will shed light on the nutritional value of these fruits and offer valuable insights on the fine art of providing fruits to your cherished dragon companion. Emphasizing the title “What Fruits Can Bearded Dragons Eat?” within the article, we aim to present this information in a clear and elegant manner for easy comprehension.

Related: Bearded Dragon Eyes Bulging: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Importance of proper nutrition for bearded dragons

Bearded dragons require a balanced diet to maintain good health and longevity. Nutrition plays a crucial role in the development of bones, muscles, and the Immune system. Proper nutrition can prevent diseases and ensure a happy, healthy pet.

Bearded Dragons’ Diet and Nutrition Needs

Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they require both plant and animal matter in their diet. They need a diet that is high in protein, calcium, and vitamin D3. Bearded dragons require a balanced diet consisting of 50% vegetables and 50% protein-rich foods.

They require a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 2:1. They also need vitamin D3 to absorb calcium. Improper diet can cause a range of health problems in bearded dragons, including metabolic bone disease, constipation, obesity, and liver disease.

Safe Fruits for Bearded Dragons

Fruits provide a variety of nutrients and minerals that can be beneficial to a bearded dragon’s health. They also add variety to their diet which can encourage them to eat more vegetables.

Here are 50 Fruits that are safe for Bearded Dragons to eat:

1. Apples – Apples are a great source of vitamins and minerals for bearded dragons. They are best served peeled and diced.

2. Apricots – These small, sweet fruits are a good source of fiber and vitamin A for bearded dragons.

3. Bananas – Bananas are high in potassium and vitamin C. They should be offered in moderation due to their high sugar content.

4. Blackberries – These antioxidant-rich fruits can be offered as a tasty treat for bearded dragons.

5. Blueberries – Blueberries are low in sugar and high in antioxidants, making them a great snack for bearded dragons.

6. Cantaloupe – Cantaloupe is high in vitamin A and fiber. Bearded dragons should only be given the flesh, not the rind.

7. Cherries – Cherries are a good source of fiber and vitamin C for bearded dragons. Make sure to remove the pits before feeding.

8. Cranberries – Cranberries are high in antioxidants and can help prevent urinary tract infections in bearded dragons.

9. Cucumber – Cucumbers are a hydrating and low-calorie snack for bearded dragons.

10. Dragonfruit – As the name suggests, this fruit is a great source of nutrition for bearded dragons, including vitamin C and fiber.

11. Figs – Figs are high in fiber and calcium, making them a healthy snack for bearded dragons.

12. Grapes – Grapes are a good source of vitamins and antioxidants for bearded dragons. They should be offered in moderation due to their high sugar content.

13. Guava – Guava is a high-fiber fruit that can help regulate digestion in bearded dragons.

14. Kiwi – Kiwi is a good source of vitamin C and fiber for bearded dragons. It should be offered peeled and diced.

15. Mango – Mango is a good source of vitamins and fiber for bearded dragons. It should be offered peeled and diced.

16. Mulberries – These sweet fruits are high in antioxidants and can be offered as a tasty treat for bearded dragons.

17. Nectarines – Nectarines are a good source of vitamin C and fiber for bearded dragons. They should be offered peeled and diced.

18. Papaya – Papaya is high in fiber and can help regulate digestion in bearded dragons.

19. Passionfruit – This tropical fruit is high in fiber and vitamin C, making it a healthy snack for bearded dragons.

20. Peaches – Peaches are a good source of vitamin C and fiber for bearded dragons. They should be offered peeled and diced.

21. Pears – Pears are a good source of fiber and vitamin C for bearded dragons. They should be offered peeled and diced.

22. Pineapple – Pineapple is high in vitamin C and can help with digestion in bearded dragons. It should be offered in moderation due to its high sugar content.

23. Plums – Plums are a good source of fiber and vitamin C for bearded dragons. They should be offered peeled and diced.

24. Pomegranate – Pomegranate is high in antioxidants and can be offered as a tasty treat for bearded dragons.

25. Raspberries – These low-sugar fruits are high in antioxidants and can be offered as a tasty treat for bearded dragons.

26. Strawberries – Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants for bearded dragons. They should be offered in moderation due to their high sugar content.

27. Watermelon – Watermelon is a hydrating and low-calorie snack for bearded dragons. It should be offered in moderation due to its high sugar content.

28. Oranges – Oranges are a great source of vitamin C and can help with immune system function in bearded dragons. They should be offered in moderation due to their high sugar content.

29. Tangerines – Tangerines are similar to oranges and can also be offered as a source of vitamin C for bearded dragons.

30. Lemons – Lemons are high in vitamin C and can also help with digestion in bearded dragons. They should be offered in moderation due to their acidity.

31. Limes – Limes are similar to lemons and can also be offered as a source of vitamin C for bearded dragons.

32. Papayas – Papayas are high in fiber and enzymes that can aid in digestion for bearded dragons.

33. Persimmons – Persimmons are a good source of vitamins and minerals for bearded dragons. They should be offered ripe and peeled.

34. Goji berries – Goji berries are high in antioxidants and can be offered as a tasty treat for bearded dragons.

35. Kumquats – Kumquats are high in fiber and vitamin C for bearded dragons. They can be offered whole but should be cut in half for smaller dragons.

36. Pummelo – Pummelo is a large citrus fruit that is high in vitamin C and can help with digestion in bearded dragons.

37. Acerola cherries – These small cherries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants for bearded dragons.

38. Cherimoya – Cherimoya is high in fiber and vitamins for bearded dragons. They should be offered ripe and peeled.

39. Currants – Currants are high in antioxidants and can be offered as a tasty treat for bearded dragons.

40. Elderberries – Elderberries are high in antioxidants and can be offered as a tasty treat for bearded dragons.

41. Feijoas – Feijoas are high in fiber and vitamins for bearded dragons. They should be offered ripe and peeled.

42. Gooseberries – Gooseberries are high in fiber and antioxidants for bearded dragons.

43. Jackfruit – Jackfruit is a large tropical fruit that is high in fiber and vitamins for bearded dragons.

44. Loquats – Loquats are high in fiber and vitamins for bearded dragons. They should be offered ripe and peeled.

45. Lychees – Lychees are high in vitamins and minerals for bearded dragons. They should be offered peeled and diced.

46. Persimmons – Persimmons are a good source of vitamins and minerals for bearded dragons. They should be offered ripe and peeled.

47. Star apples – Star apples are high in fiber and vitamins for bearded dragons. They should be offered ripe and peeled.

48. Ugli fruit – Ugli fruit is high in vitamin C and can help with digestion in bearded dragons.

49. Wax apples – Wax apples are high in fiber and vitamins for bearded dragons. They should be offered ripe and peeled.

50. Starfruit – Starfruit is high in fiber and vitamins for bearded dragons. It should be offered ripe and sliced, with any seeds removed as they can be toxic to bearded dragons. However, because of its high oxalic acid content, it should only be fed occasionally and in small amounts to avoid potential kidney problems in bearded dragons.

Nutritional values of the safe fruits for bearded dragons

Safe fruits for bearded dragons are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They contain a balanced ratio of calcium to phosphorus and are low in sugar.

Unsafe Fruits for Bearded Dragons

The dangers of feeding unsafe fruits to bearded dragons

Some fruits are unsafe for bearded dragons due to their high sugar content, toxic compounds, or poor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio. Feeding unsafe fruits can lead to health problems, including digestive issues, organ damage, and death.

List of unsafe fruits for bearded dragons

1. Citrus fruits – Citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges, and grapefruits are high in acid and can cause digestive problems in bearded dragons.

2. Avocado – Avocados contain a toxic compound called persin that can cause heart and respiratory problems in bearded dragons.

3. Rhubarb – Rhubarb contains high levels of oxalic acid, which can bind to calcium and lead to calcium deficiency in bearded dragons.

4. Persimmons – Persimmons contain high levels of tannins, which can cause digestive problems and blockages in bearded dragons.

5. Cherry pits – Cherry pits contain cyanide, which can be toxic to bearded dragons.

6. Tomato leaves – Tomato leaves contain solanine, which can cause digestive problems and lethargy in bearded dragons.

Why these fruits are unsafe for bearded dragons

Unsafe fruits for bearded dragons contain either toxic compounds, high levels of acid or sugar, or a poor calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.

Tips for Feeding Fruits to Bearded Dragons

Fruits should only make up 10% of a bearded dragon’s diet. Feeding too many fruits can lead to health problems and obesity. Fruits should be washed thoroughly and cut into small pieces. Seeds, pits, and stems should be removed. Bearded dragons can be fed fruits once or twice a week.

Conclusion

Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of bearded dragons. Fruits can be a healthy and nutritious addition to a bearded dragon’s diet when fed in moderation and prepared properly. As responsible pet owners, we must provide our bearded dragons with a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, we can ensure a happy, healthy pet for years to come.