Bearded dragons are used to dry and arid environments, so they can eat a variety of foods. Are cucumbers a good snack for them? Bearded dragons are allowed to eat cucumbers as long as they’re prepared in a specific way every two weeks.
Many people love the bearded dragons affectionately known as “beardies.” The inland bearded Dragon is the most common of the eight bearded types on Earth. The diet of all bearded species is the same. VCA Hospitals recommends feeding your bearded dragons 50% carnivorous and 50% omnivorous food.
We’ll explore why beardies can eat cucumbers.
Cucumbers contain valuable nutrients
Water is the main component of cucumbers, which is actually classified as a fruit. They also contain essential nutrients such as:
- Fiber to prevent constipation
- Vitamin K for healthy blood platelets
- Vitamin C is great for your immune system
- Potassium is essential to maintain healthy kidneys and muscle function.
- Manganese to reduce inflammation
- Magnesium for brain health
These nutrients will keep your bearded drake healthy. If your bearded is experiencing stomach problems, cucumbers are a great option. Its low acidity and fiber content prevent constipation.
How to prepare cucumbers for bearded dragons
Cucumbers are good food for bearded dragons, but only if they’re prepared properly.
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. It will prevent any potentially harmful substances, such as bacteria or pesticides, from getting onto the flesh.
Peel the cucumber. The peel is not chewable by bearded dragons and will result in painful blockages.
Scoop out the seeds (choking hazards) with a teaspoon and then cut the flesh into small chunks.
Serve the cucumber alone or with other food. He should eat it up right away!
How Often Can a Beardie Eat Cucumbers?
A beardie may eat cucumbers every two weeks. Cucumbers should not be considered a staple. Fruits should not make up more than 10% of the beardie’s daily diet, since cucumbers are technically fruits. He may experience negative side effects if he eats cucumbers too frequently.
Overwater
In its natural state, your bearded reptile is slightly dehydrated. They don’t really need to drink that much. Cucumbers should be replaced by other, more nutritious, and less hydrating vegetables. A diet high in cucumbers can cause diarrhea in bearded dragons.
Too Little Calcium
Bearded Dragons cannot absorb calcium from cucumbers because of the calcium/phosphorus ratio. Bearded dragons that do not receive enough calcium can suffer from a bone disease which could cause paralysis or even death. Too many cucumbers mean that your bearded dragon is not getting enough calcium from other sources.
What Vegetables Can a Bearded Dragon Eat?
Vegetables should make up the majority of your bearded dragon’s diet. What are the best vegetables?
Green, leafy vegetables are the best for you since they contain more nutrients. You can also feed them anything red, yellow, or orange. There are many vegetables that bearded Dragons can eat. Most of them are fine, but there will be a few listed below. You can serve him either raw or cooked vegetables. However, raw vegetables are better as they contain more nutrients.
You should be careful not to feed your beardie too many spinach, swiss chard, or beet leaves. These vegetables can cause nutritional deficiencies in your bearded lizard if they are consumed too much. They have the ability to bind calcium and minerals. They are only recommended to be fed in small quantities.
What foods are poisonous to bearded dragons?
There are some foods that you should avoid feeding your bearded Dragon.
Don’t feed these foods to your beardie
- Fireflies
- Avocado
- Garlic
- Rhubarb
- Eggplant
- Lettuce is not poisonous but it’s not recommended.
Keep your beardie happy and healthy by eating a variety of foods.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to worry about the food you feed your bearded lizard, as long as you offer him a variety. You will be able to ensure that your bearded dragon is receiving all the nutrients it requires.
Do not forget to wash your hand after feeding or handling your beardie. Even bacteria or parasites which don’t affect beardies can be harmful to humans.
Enjoy your snacking!
How many cucumbers should I feed my beardless dragon?
A beardie can eat cucumber every other week. They should not be considered a staple meal. While cucumbers are technically a fruit, fruits should account for no more than 10% of your beardie’s diet. If he is fed cucumbers too frequently, he may develop some unpleasant side effects.
What is the most nutritious fruit for bearded dragons?
The Most Appropriate Fruit for Your Bearded Dragon Apples (peeled; weekly) (peeled; weekly) Apricot (every other week) (every other week) Bananas (with or without peel; once or twice a month) (with or without peel; once or twice a month) Blackberries (every other week) (every other week) Blueberries (weekly) (weekly) Cantaloupe (every couple weeks) (every few weeks) Cherries (monthly) (monthly) Raisins and dates (very rarely)
What kind of fruit is best for bearded dragons?
Here are some fruits that Bearded Dragons can consume in moderation: Apples, peaches, and strawberries are all delicious. Apricot. Blackberries. Blueberries. Cranberries. Cherries. More to come.
Is it necessary to trim the nails of my bearded dragon?
It is critical to keep your beardie’s nails nicely cut or clipped for pleasant and safe handling. Because their nails grow quickly, regular cutting (once a month) is required to prevent scratching or getting their nails stuck on anything and being injured.
How long does a bearded dragon live?
They have a lifespan of 10 to 15 years or more, thus they require a significant investment. It is critical to recreate their native habitat as closely as possible. Learn more about caring for your bearded dragon and keeping it healthy and happy.
Bearded dragons can eat chicken. So, bearded dragons can eat chicken?
The simple answer is no. Chicken is not a particularly nutritious diet for your bearded dragon. A tiny piece or two every few months may be alright, but if your bearded dragon consumes a lot of chicken, he may grow unwell or die.
What foods are forbidden to bearded dragons?
Avoid veggies like spinach, broccoli, and romaine since eating too much of these can be dangerous, and they have little nutritional benefit. Apples, strawberries, melons, and peaches are other favorites of bearded dragons. Apart from tasty fruits and vegetables, dragons will devour almost any moving bug.
What is poisonous to bearded dragons?
Fireflies, lightning bugs, and other worms that glow in the dark are examples of this. The substance that causes these insects to shine is extremely harmful to bearded dragons. Avocados should also be avoided since they are toxic to bears.
Do bearded dragons know who their owners are?
Many bearded dragons know their owner’s voice and aroma and exhibit numerous signals of comfort and familiarity in their presence. Even while it isn’t really love, this may build a very particular relationship.
Are bearded dragons unclean pets?
Bearded dragons can transmit Salmonella infections to humans, making them ill. Always take precautions to keep yourself and your bearded dragon healthy. Even though they appear healthy and clean, bearded dragons can transmit Salmonella bacteria in their droppings.