Bearded dragons can eat cabbage, but it should be only a part of the diet. It provides several nutrients for your scaly companion, but not all cabbages work equally well for your friend, and it is potentially dangerous to overfeed it.
In this article, we take a closer look into whether bearded dragons can eat cabbage.
Can bearded dragons eat cabbage?
Cabbage is fine for bearded dragons, sure, but it should be served on rare occasions and only in modest doses. Cabbage is also very vitamin and mineral-dense, making it a healthy option when included in a healthy diet.
But it also contains compounds such as oxalates and goitrogens that can disrupt calcium absorption and thyroid function if fed too much.
If you want your bearded dragon to remain fit, pair cabbage with other leafy greens and vegetables, and serve it raw and chopped finely so it can be easily consumed.
Understanding Cabbage in a Bearded Dragon’s Diet
Cabbage is one of the Brassicas, the vegetable group that includes kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. These vegetables contain beneficial nutrients but also contain goitrogens and oxalates that will make a bearded dragon sick if eaten too much.
Types of Cabbage for Bearded Dragons
Green Cabbage
Green cabbage is the most popular vegetable available in supermarkets. It is packed with vitamins K and C, calcium, and fiber. Green cabbage is a refreshing and nutritious food when consumed in moderation. However, its low oxalate content also means it should never be a key part of their diet.
Benefits:
- A rich source of antioxidants for good health
- Provides water because of its water content
Drawbacks:
- Too much can trap calcium and lead to deficiencies
- Excessive consumption may upset digestion
Red Cabbage
Red cabbage is just a little healthier than green cabbage and is loaded with vitamins A and C, and antioxidants such as anthocyanins. Because it is colorful, meals can become more visually appealing to your dragon.
Benefits:
- Contains antioxidants that support an efficient immune system
- Provides Vitamin A for healthy skin and eyes
Drawbacks:
- Oxalates and goitrogens should be taken in moderation
- A deficit of water can cause diarrhea if you overfeed
Savoy Cabbage
Savoy cabbage is wrinkled and more mild-flavored than other types. Its thin leaves are easy to chew and digest, so it is a great treat for dragons from time to time.
Benefits:
- Easy to chew, especially for young or old dragons
- Provides various vitamins and minerals
Drawbacks:
- Like all cabbages, it is high in calcium-lowering compounds
- Only needs to be fed every so often, so as not to cause chronic health problems
Napa Cabbage
Napa or Chinese cabbages have sweet leaves. It’s a lower-fiber food than other cabbages but provides some water and nutrients.
Benefits:
- Gentle on the digestive system
- Contains less goitrogens than green or red cabbage
Drawbacks:
- A lesser amount of fiber, and you’re wasting much digestive time
- Must be a healthy part of a diet, not the sole vegetable
How to feed your bearded dragon cabbage
It takes planning and balance to feed cabbage to your bearded dragon safely.
Preparation Tips
Always follow these steps:
- Wash Well: Clean up dirt and pesticides by washing cabbage leaves with hot water
- Chop Finely: Chop cabbage into bite-size pieces to prevent choking and make eating easier for your dragon
- Serve Raw: Never cook cabbage, as it loses its nutrients through cooking
Combining with Other Greens
Cabbage belongs in a salad bowl that contains common greens such as:
- Collard greens
- Mustard greens
- Dandelion greens
If you pair cabbage with these foods, your dragon gets a complete meal.
How Much Cabbage Should Bearded Dragons Consume?
Important feeding guidelines:
- Cabbage should not be the main course of your dragon’s diet, but an occasional treat
- It’s sufficient to feed it once or twice a month
- Keep track of portions — just a few little pieces added to their salad is enough
Potential Risks of Feeding Cabbage
In moderation, cabbage is good, but in excess it’s harmful:
Major concerns include:
- Calcium Deficit: Oxalates in cabbage attach to calcium, making it harder for your dragon to absorb this vital mineral
- Thyroid Disorder: Goitrogens can affect the thyroid (especially if given too much)
- Digestive Issues: Excess water content may lead to diarrhea
Final Thoughts
Bearded dragons can eat cabbage, but only on rare occasions. Each kind of cabbage has its own advantages and disadvantages, and red cabbage is the most nutritious. Always provide cabbage that’s served raw, washed, and in small amounts. Combine it with other greens to make it a balanced meal without any risks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can baby bearded dragons eat cabbage?
Avoid cabbage for newborn dragons, who need to eat more protein and calcium-dense greens.
What kind of cabbage is best for bearded dragons?
Red cabbage is the most nutritious, but it should be limited in quantities because of oxalates and goitrogens.
Does my bearded dragon need cabbage every day?
No, cabbage is to be enjoyed only for special occasions, not every day.
Is cooked cabbage safe for bearded dragons?
No, cooked cabbage contains little nutritional value and is not good for bearded dragons.
Which vegetables should I give my bearded dragon instead of cabbage?
Collard greens, mustard greens, and dandelion greens are great options.