Strawberries can be beneficial to bearded dragons in a variety of ways. The high water content in strawberries keeps the beardie hydrated, and the low carb content makes them a good snack for those trying to keep their pet’s weight under control. Strawberries are also high in vitamin C and calcium, both of which are necessary for a healthy beardie diet. Another significant advantage is the fiber in strawberries, which can aid digestion. Strawberries are an excellent addition to a balanced diet for your bearded dragon.
What You'll Learn
Benefits of Feeding Strawberries to Bearded Dragons
High in Water – Helps With Hydration
Bearded dragons require plenty of water to stay hydrated and healthy, and feeding them strawberries is a great way to ensure they get enough fluids. Strawberries, due to their high water content, are an excellent source of hydration. You can help keep your dragon hydrated by giving it strawberries on a weekly basis.
Low in Carbs
Although a few carbs are beneficial to bearded dragons, too many can cause serious digestive problems. Strawberries are low in carbs and make an excellent occasional treat.
Plenty of Vitamin C and Calcium
Strawberries are high in Vitamin C and calcium, both of which are beneficial to the health of your bearded dragon. Vitamin C boosts their immune system and promotes healthy skin, while calcium promotes strong bones and teeth.
Fiber to Help With Digestion
Bearded dragons need fiber in their diet to aid digestion. Strawberries have 1.8 grams of fiber per cup, making them an excellent source of fiber. The fiber aids in the proper functioning of your bearded dragon’s digestive system by allowing food to move more easily through the digestive tract.
Just one strawberry per week can help your dragon get enough fiber. However, too much fiber can cause diarrhea, so keep track of how many strawberries you feed your pet (more on this below).
Potential Risks of Feeding Strawberries to Bearded Dragons
- Strawberries are generally safe for your bearded dragon, but there are a few risks to consider.
- If your pet consumes too much of this fruit, he or she may experience diarrhea.
- Strawberries are high in sugar and should be consumed in moderation.
- The seeds have the potential to clog your pet’s digestive tract, though this is uncommon.
Diarrhea if Eaten in Excess
Strawberry is a great addition to a bearded dragon’s diet because of its high water, vitamin C, and calcium content, but remember that too much of a good thing can be bad. Eating too many strawberries in one sitting can cause diarrhea in your bearded dragon. This is due to a combination of increased hydration and fiber.
High Sugar Content
Strawberry is low in carbs, but the carbs that it does have are mostly from sugar. Remember that bearded dragons are not humans and do not digest food in the same way that we do. Humans can tolerate moderate amounts of sugar, but bearded dragons cannot. Too much sugar can cause diarrhea and upset stomach in your bearded dragon.
Seeds Can Block Digestive Tract (Rare)
Although it is uncommon, seeds can clog the digestive tract. Strawberry seeds are small and usually harmless to most adult bearded dragons, but if not chewed properly, they can become lodged in their throat or intestines.
How to Feed Strawberries to Bearded Dragons
- Wash a strawberry in cold water before feeding it to your bearded dragon.
- Cut into small pieces. This will help to ensure that the fruit is safe and easy to digest.
- Feed strawberries no more than once per week.
Wash With Cold Water
Wash strawberries in cold water before feeding them to your bearded dragon. This will aid in the removal of any dirt, pesticides, or other contaminants that may be present on the fruit and could harm your pet.
Cut Into Small Pieces
After you’ve finished washing the strawberries, cut them into small pieces. Smaller pieces will be easier for your bearded dragon to digest and are less likely to cause stomach discomfort or digestive tract blockage. It will also help you control how much your dragon consumes in one sitting.
Limit to 1 Strawberry per Week
Limit the number of strawberries you feed your bearded dragon to one per week. If consumed in excess, this sweet treat can cause stomach upset and even diarrhea.
What About Frozen Strawberries?
During the hot summer months, frozen strawberries can be a tasty treat for your bearded dragon. However, keep in mind that frozen strawberries are quite hard and could pose a choking hazard. So, before giving them to your pet, let them thaw and then cut them into small pieces. You should feed frozen strawberries to your bearded dragon no more than once a week, just as you would fresh strawberries.
What About Strawberry Tops and Leaves?
Strawberry tops and leaves are also safe to feed in moderation. They have much less sugar than the rest of the berry but are still high in antioxidants and other nutrients. The tops and leaves have been shown to help with digestion, lower blood sugar, and boost the immune system. These should still be consumed in moderation, as too much can cause digestive problems such as diarrhea.
Key Points
- Strawberries are beneficial to bearded dragons due to their low carbohydrate content, high vitamin C and calcium content, and fiber.
- Strawberries are high in water and can help keep the beardie hydrated.
- Strawberries are low in carbs, which is good for weight control, but they are high in sugar, which can cause digestive issues if consumed in excess.
- Strawberry seeds are small and harmless to most adult bearded dragons, but if not chewed properly, they can clog the digestive tract.
- Strawberries should be washed in cold water, cut into small pieces, and consumed no more than once per week to avoid digestive problems.
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
