Bearded dragons require calcium 2-3 times per week to stay healthy. Calcium is necessary for their phosphorus metabolism and absorption. It also strengthens bones, aids in shedding, and prevents metabolic bone disease.
Adults require 600-1000mg of calcium per day, while baby bearded dragons require 400-700mg per day. To meet these requirements, add calcium to their diet 2-3 times per week.
Calcium can be obtained from natural sources such as leafy greens, fruits, and insects, as well as calcium supplements. It’s critical to make sure your bearded dragon is getting enough calcium for its age and size, as well as to watch for signs of calcium deficiency, such as weak bones or an inability to shed.
What You'll Learn
How Much Calcium Is Necessary?
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- The amount of calcium required by bearded dragons is determined by their age, size, and overall health.
- Hatchlings require approximately 650mg of calcium per day, while juveniles require approximately 600-1000mg of calcium per day.
- If your bearded dragon is sick or has a weakened immune system, they may need more calcium to stay healthy.
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Age
When determining how much calcium a bearded dragon requires, age is an important consideration. Babies, for example, will benefit from having their food dusted with calcium 4-5 times per week. Juveniles require approximately 650mg per day, while adults require approximately 350mg per day. The amount of calcium the dragon receives should decrease with its age.
Size
Bearded dragons vary in size, and the amount of calcium they require varies accordingly. It is critical to understand that the larger the dragon, the more calcium it requires to stay healthy. If you have a large bearded dragon, it is even more crucial that you provide enough calcium for their daily needs.
Health Status
The health of a bearded dragon influences its calcium requirements. If a bearded dragon is healthy and getting enough nutrients, it will require less calcium than a sick or malnourished dragon. Furthermore, dragons suffering from certain illnesses, such as metabolic bone disease, may require additional calcium supplements to stay healthy.
Signs of Calcium Deficiency
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- Weak bones, inability to shed, and metabolic bone disease are all warning signs.
- Weak bones can increase the risk of fractures, while an inability to shed can cause skin problems.
- Metabolic bone disease is a potentially fatal condition that can result in severe pain, deformity, and even paralysis.
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Weak Bones
Your bearded dragon’s bones can become weak and brittle if it does not get enough calcium. Calcium is required for strong and healthy bone development, and without it, your beardie will be unable to develop properly. Their bones will lose strength and become prone to fractures from the slightest impact due to a lack of calcium in their diet.
Inability to Shed
If your bearded dragon is not getting enough calcium and vitamin D3, he or she may be unable to shed properly. When a bearded dragon’s skin lacks calcium, it is unable to shed old skin cells as efficiently, resulting in patches of old skin and a more difficult shedding process.
Metabolic Bone Disease
Bearded dragons are susceptible to Metabolic Bone Disease, which is caused by a calcium deficiency in the body. This condition is distinguished by weakened bones, an inability to shed, and body stiffness.
Benefits of Calcium
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- Calcium is essential for a healthy bearded dragon of any age or size.
- Calcium strengthens their bones and aids in the proper shedding of their skin.
- You can keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy by including natural calcium sources in their diet and supplementing with calcium as needed.
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Strengthens Bones
Bearded dragons require calcium to maintain strong and healthy bones. Calcium is necessary for proper bone development and growth, as well as for the prevention of bone health problems. Calcium also strengthens the bones, making them less prone to fractures and other bone-related problems.
Aids in Shedding
Bearded dragons require calcium to shed because their bodies need it to break down and remove old skin. Calcium aids in the health and strength of the dragon’s skin, making it easier for them to shed their old skin. When a dragon’s calcium levels are low, shedding can be difficult and painful because the skin is less supple and strong.
How to Add Calcium to Your Bearded Dragons Diet
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- Dusting food is an excellent way to supplement a bearded dragon’s diet with calcium.
- Natural sources of calcium include leafy greens such as Romaine lettuce, collard greens, turnip greens, and kale.
- Purchase calcium supplements that are specifically formulated for reptiles and follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
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Natural Sources of Calcium
There are numerous natural calcium sources available for them to consume. Calcium-rich leafy greens include Romaine lettuce, collard greens, and turnip greens. Cactus pads or prickly pear, kale, squash, and rapini are some other options.
Calcium Supplements
Calcium supplements are an excellent way to ensure that your bearded dragon is getting enough calcium. Calcium supplements come in liquid, powder, and pill form and can be sprinkled on food, mixed into water, or taken as a pill.
If you are unsure about giving a calcium supplement to your pet, seek advice from a veterinarian. Calcium supplements added to your bearded dragon’s diet on a regular basis can help prevent metabolic bone disease, strengthen bones, and aid in shedding.
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- Bearded dragons require calcium 2-3 times per week to support metabolism, bone health, shedding, and the prevention of metabolic bone disease.
- The amount of calcium required depends on the age, size, and health of the dragon, with hatchlings and juveniles requiring more than adults.
- Calcium deficiency can manifest as weak bones, inability to shed, and metabolic bone disease.
- Calcium can be supplemented through natural sources such as leafy greens and calcium supplements formulated for reptiles to help strengthen bones and aid in shedding.
- Calcium dusting or providing natural calcium sources such as leafy greens can ensure that your bearded dragon gets enough calcium to stay healthy.
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Hi! My name is Bryan, I am the “one behind the words” here are BeardieAnswers.com. I believe that providing quality care and nutrition is the best way to ensure the health of your pet. Every beardie is special and deserves the best care and attention. If you have questions about your bearded dragon, please don’t hesitate to ask! View My Full Author Page
