Beardies do enjoy salmon! Salmon is an oily fish that’s full of beneficial omega 3 fatty acids, which can help promote healthy skin and fur. Salmon also contains higher levels of phosphorus and vitamin B12, important vitamins that Beardies need to stay healthy.
However, due to the high levels of fat, salmon should only be given in moderation. As with any new food, introduce salmon to your Beardie slowly and in small quantities, and monitor them for any negative reactions.
Additionally, make sure that the salmon you give them is cooked (never raw) and free of any additional seasonings or sauces.
What fish can bearded dragons eat?
Bearded dragons can eat mostly live insects, as this is their primary source of nutrition and what they would feed on in the wild. Some of the insects they can eat are crickets, mealworms, roaches, locusts, silkworms, and waxworms.
In addition, you can feed them small amounts of vegetables and pinky mice. When feeding vegetables, it is best to offer a combination of leafy greens and vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, squash, and green beans.
The amount of vegetables you feed them should be less than the amount of insects they eat.
Bearded dragons can also feed on certain fish species as an occasional treat. Some of the fish they can eat are tilapia, goldfish, guppies, and minnows as long as they are fed in small amounts. The fish should be gut loaded, which means it was recently fed nutritious food in order for your bearded dragon to get the nutrients from the fish.
It is important to remember that fish should not be used as the primary source of food for your bearded dragon, as it is not as nutritionally balanced as insects.
Can I feed my bearded dragon goldfish?
No, you should never feed your bearded dragon goldfish. Goldfish are not a natural part of a bearded dragon’s diet and their high fat content may lead to health complications for your pet. Bearded dragons naturally feed on small insects such as crickets, worms, and roaches, as well as some fruits, vegetables, and even the occasional small pinky mice.
These items should make up the majority of your bearded dragon’s diet. Goldfish also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1). This can cause a Vitamin B1 deficiency if fed too often and can result in serious health complications.
Goldfish may also contain parasites and bacteria that can potentially be harmful to your pet. Stick to feeding your bearded dragon healthy items such as crickets, worms, and other insects, fresh fruits and vegetables, and occasionally some small pinky mice.
What meat can Beardies eat?
Beardies can eat a variety of meats as part of a balanced diet. Lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish are generally good sources of protein, B vitamins, and other nutrients. Beef, lamb, and pork are also acceptable in moderation, as long as they are lean cuts of meat.
Bones should never be fed to Beardies, as they can become lodged in their throat or cause intestinal blockages. For added variety, cooked eggs, cottage cheese, and yogurt can also be included in their diet.
All meats should be cooked thoroughly, and treats should be given sparingly.
What foods are poisonous to Beardies?
Bearded dragons are omnivores and there are several foods that can be toxic and dangerous to them if eaten. These include:
* Avocados: Avocados contain persin, which is a toxic substance that can cause kidney and liver damage to bearded dragons.
* Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to bearded dragons because it contains theobromine, which is a toxic chemical found in cocoa beans.
* Rhubarb: The leaves of the rhubarb plant contain oxalic acid, which can lead to kidney damage or even death if ingested by bearded dragons.
* Onions and Garlic: The chemical compounds found in onions and garlic are known to be harmful to bearded dragons and can cause anemia, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed.
* Caffeine: Caffeine is a stimulant that can cause a fast or irregular heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death if consumed by a bearded dragon.
Overall, it is important to remember that while certain foods are not inherently poisonous to bearded dragons, some can cause digestive issues and other health problems if eaten in large amounts. Therefore, it is always best to feed them only the food that is formulated specifically for their species and avoid feeding them any human food.
Is there anything a bearded dragon should not eat?
Yes, a bearded dragon should not eat anything that is not part of their natural diet. This includes any meats, dairy products, or processed foods, as they will not meet their nutritional needs and could be potentially dangerous.
Additionally, they should not be given any food that contains high amounts of fat, phosphorous, or calcium, as these can lead to serious health problems such as kidney and liver damage, obesity, and metabolic bone disease.
Foods that may offer the potential for health problems include insects, fruits and vegetables that are not specifically formulated for reptile nutrition, as well as pet food intended for other pets. It is important to research the particular food items and ensure they meet the dietary requirements of a bearded dragon.
What food is toxic to reptiles?
Certain kinds of food can be toxic to reptiles and should be avoided when selecting their diet. This includes toxic vegetables such as rhubarb, potatoes, onions, and garlic, as well as some fruits such as cherries, apricots, and peaches.
Insects like lobsters, shrimp, and crabs are also potentially dangerous to reptiles, as they can be a source of parasites. Other dangerous foods to avoid are higher-fat meats like beef and pork, as well as processed meats, cured meats, and cold cuts.
Finally, some common human foods that can be hazardous for reptiles include peanuts, chocolate, coffee, and dairy products. Reptiles should never be given unpasteurized milk or cheese, as these can contain bacteria that can lead to serious health issues.
What should you not put in a bearded dragon tank?
Bearded dragons are a popular pet species, but it is important to ensure their tanks are properly set up to keep them healthy. Tanks for bearded dragons should not include any items that could danger the pet, including:
• sharp or jagged rocks or branches, as these can cause injury or cuts
• household items, like plastic toys or toilet paper rolls, as they may contain toxins or chemicals that can be harmful
• decorations with small parts that could be ingested or scratched off
• cedar, redwood, or pine, as the oils and fragrances could cause skin or respiratory irritation
• any kind of scented substrate, as these can be harmful
• water bowls with deep sides, as bearded dragons can drown easily
• flammable items like candles, as dragons are ectothermic which means they can easily overheat
• natural plants that are not specifically labeled as safe for reptiles
• any kind of insecticides or cleaning chemicals.