If you have a bearded dragon, then you understand how much these creatures love their meals. And with such a wide variety in their diet, you can get really creative with making sure your pet gets all the proper nutrition.
But one question we hear a lot is whether or not bearded dragons can eat grapes, bananas, strawberries, and other fruits. Below, we will dive into this question and provide you with a list of all the fruits that are safe for bearded dragons to eat.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Grapes, Strawberries, & Bananas?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat grapes, strawberries, bananas, and a vast number of other fruits as well. In fact, fruits provide bearded dragons and other pet lizards with essential nutrients as well as provide a hydrating effect. However, there a couple of things that are important to keep in mind when giving your bearded dragon fruit:
- Always provide fruit in moderation. Much like any type of food, too much of it can actually be damaging. You should NEVER attempt to raise a bearded dragon or any other pet lizard on a fruit-only diet.
- Avoid fruits high in Phosphorus. Fruits that are high in Phosphorus, such as mangos, don’t provide your bearded dragon with enough calcium. These fruits also tend to be high in oxalates, which can damage your pet’s kidneys.
- Always research before feeding. Never just assume that your bearded dragon can eat a specific fruit. Look it up and verify before you give it to them.
It is also good practice to always cut up the fruit into bit-sized pieces to reduce the risk of your pet choking. While bearded dragons technically can eat grapes whole, it’s generally recommended that you cut them in half first.
As for bananas, be sure to slice them up thin and then cut them in half again. You can even cut up the peel, as bearded dragons love them and get similar nutrients as when they eat the actual fruit.
How Bearded Dragons Benefit From Eating Fruit
Bearded dragons are omnivorous, which means they need both plant and animal-based foods to meet their nutritional needs. While insects make up a significant portion of their diet, fruits are also important for providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Fruits can help to ensure that bearded dragons are receiving a well-rounded and balanced diet that promotes overall health and vitality.
Some of the essential vitamins and minerals found in fruits that are beneficial to bearded dragons include vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy eyesight, skin, and immune function, while vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis, wound healing, and boosting immunity. Potassium is important for maintaining proper heart and muscle function, while fiber promotes gut health and digestion.
There are many different types of fruits that are suitable for bearded dragons to eat, including berries, melons, papayas, and mangos. Blueberries and raspberries are excellent sources of antioxidants and vitamin C, while cantaloupes and honeydews are high in potassium and vitamin A. Papayas and mangos are also great sources of vitamin A and fiber.
It’s essential to note that while fruits are beneficial for bearded dragons, they should be offered in moderation as too much can cause digestive issues. Additionally, citrus fruits should be avoided as they are too acidic and can cause digestive upset.
What Fruits Can Bearded Dragons Eat?
Below is a list of the fruits that bearded dragons are safe to eat in moderation:
- Grapes
- Strawberries
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Cherries
- Apples
- Pears
- Peaches
- Pineapple
- Figs
- Plums
- Kiwi
- Tomatoes
Fruits to Avoid
- Mangoes
- Oranges
- Lemons
- Limes
- Grapefruit
- Citrons
- Clementines
What Should A Bearded Dragon’s Diet Look Like?
A pet bearded dragon’s diet should consist of a balance of both animal-based and plant-based foods to provide all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. The ideal ratio is typically 70% animal-based foods and 30% plant-based foods.
Insects like crickets, mealworms, and roaches are the primary source of animal-based protein for bearded dragons, but they can also consume small mice, rats, or other meat products. It’s important to note that insects should be gut-loaded, meaning they are fed nutritious foods before being fed to the bearded dragon.
Plant-based foods are essential for providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Leafy greens like collard greens, kale, and mustard greens are excellent sources of calcium, while squash and carrots provide essential vitamins and antioxidants. Fruits can also be offered in moderation, but should not make up more than 10% of the overall diet. Bearded dragons also require access to clean, fresh water at all times.
It’s important to vary the diet to prevent nutritional deficiencies or excesses, which can lead to health problems. Offering a variety of different insect and plant-based foods will help ensure that your bearded dragon is getting a well-rounded diet.
Additionally, it’s essential to avoid feeding bearded dragons foods that are toxic to them, such as avocado, rhubarb, and chocolate. A veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals can provide additional guidance on what foods are appropriate for a bearded dragon’s diet.
Bearded Dragon Fruit FAQ
Can bearded dragons eat grapes?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat grapes. Just be sure to feed them in moderation and always cut the fruit up so it’s a safe size to eat.
Can bearded dragons eat bananas?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat bananas – they will even eat the peels!
Can bearded dragons eat strawberries?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat strawberries in moderation.
What fruits should bearded dragons avoid?
Bearded dragons should always avoid citrus fruits as well as fruits high in Phosphorus.
