In short: Yes, but as a treat. Strawberries are really yummy and very sweet, and your dragon might love them. However, they’re not the best addition to a bearded dragon’s regular diet. While strawberries can offer some benefits, they should only be given occasionally and in small amounts. In this article, we’ll go over the nutritional value, benefits, risks, and guidelines for feeding strawberries to your bearded dragon.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?
Strawberries are packed with vitamins and a lot of fiber for your bearded dragon. They contain Vitamin C, which improves their immune system and prevents stuck shed. They also have a high water content, which helps prevent dehydration.
Benefits of Strawberries for Bearded Dragons
- Vitamin C: Helps keep their immune system strong.
- Fiber: Aids in digestion and keeps their tummy happy.
- Hydration: The water content helps keep them hydrated, especially in hot weather.
How Often Can Bearded Dragons Eat Strawberries?
Strawberries? Yes, but only occasionally! You can give your bearded dragon a couple of pieces of strawberries if they like them. Offer just one or two tiny pieces per week. Remember, too much of a good thing can be bad!
How to Prepare Strawberries for Your Bearded Dragon
- Wash Thoroughly: Always wash the strawberry well to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Chop into Little Pieces: Cut the strawberry into small pieces so that your bearded dragon won’t have difficulty eating it.
- Serve Fresh: Make sure the strawberry is fresh and not too mushy or old.
Risks of Feeding Too Many Strawberries
- Sugar Content: Strawberries are low in sugar and high in fiber, but too much sugar can cause weight problems, diarrhea, and susceptibility to dental problems. Excess sugar can also cause bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, leading to digestive issues.
- Water Content: While hydration is a benefit, too much water can lead to diarrhea and exacerbate dehydration due to electrolyte loss, especially if your bearded dragon’s diet is already rich in water-saturated foods.
- Calcium/Phosphorus Ratio: A bearded dragon’s diet should never have more than half as much dietary phosphorus as calcium. Strawberries have no calcium and three times as much phosphorus, which isn’t good for your beardie. A diet high in phosphorus and low in calcium can result in Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), a condition where bones become soft and malformed. A shocking 90% of captive reptiles will develop MBD if their calcium and phosphorus balance is off.
Tip: Make sure you consult your vet if your little beardie has any strange symptoms from overeating something new.
Signs Your Bearded Dragon Likes Strawberries
- They eagerly eat the strawberry pieces.
- They may come to you when they see you have a strawberry.
- They might even do a little happy dance after eating!
Conclusion
Is it okay for your beardie to eat strawberries? Yes! Strawberries are fine as an occasional treat in small amounts: a few pieces every week or so. However, the majority of your beardie’s diet should still consist of vegetables and insects.
Make sure you check out this article – Can Bearded Dragons Eat Spinach
If you have any questions or need any advice regarding your little reptile, please email me at contact@reptileexpert.co.uk
FAQs
Can baby bearded dragons eat strawberries?
It’s not a good idea for baby bearded dragons to have a lot of sugar. They need more protein from insects than sugar. Focus on fruits and insects with higher protein content.
How much strawberry can I give my bearded dragon?
A small piece, about the size of their eye, once a week is enough.
Can bearded dragons eat strawberry leaves?
No, you shouldn’t give them the leaves as they’re harder to digest.
What if my bearded dragon doesn’t like strawberries?
Don’t worry! Some bearded dragons prefer blueberries or apples.
How do I know if a food is safe for my bearded dragon?
Research any unusual foods you consider feeding your beardie or consult your veterinarian. Not everything we eat is safe or healthy for them.