Do you have a pet bearded dragon? What do bearded dragon need? Bearded dragons are growing more and more popular as pets in the reptile world because they are docile, with no aggressive behavior. However, bearded dragons need specific care to thrive in captivity.
Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) are native to Australia and make wonderful pets due to their sociable nature, peaceful disposition and interesting behaviors.
They can live up to 15 years with proper care and maintenance, so if you decide to get one, it’s important to understand how to properly care for them.
Having a pet bearded dragon may look like an easy responsibility but caring for them requires knowledge about their diet, housing setup and health needs.
To make sure your pet beardie is happy and healthy, read on for an overview of what do bearded dragons need.
Introduction: What Do Bearded Dragon Need?
Bearded dragons are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and sleep at night. They are omnivores, meaning they eat both plants and animals.
In the wild, their diet consists of insects, small mammals, fruits and vegetables. In captivity, a bearded dragon’s diet should consist of 80% vegetables and 20% protein sources such as crickets or mealworms.
Proper Housing and Accessories
Bearded dragons need a large enclosure that is at least 4 feet long, 2 feet wide and 18 inches tall. The enclosure should be made of glass or plastic with a secure lid to prevent escape.
It should also have a basking area with a temperature of 95-105°F and a cool side with temperatures between 75-85°F. The enclosure should also include several hiding spots, a shallow water dish, and a variety of branches and rocks for climbing.
The Importance of Temperatures and Lighting
Bearded dragons need a basking light to provide them with the necessary UVB rays they need for proper calcium absorption. The basking light should be placed directly over the basking area and should be on for 12-14 hours per day.
It is also important to monitor the temperatures in the enclosure, as too high or too low temperatures can cause health problems.
A thermometer should be placed in the basking area and the cool side of the enclosure to ensure temperatures are within the proper range.
Diet and Nutrition for Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons need a balanced diet to stay healthy. They should be fed a variety of vegetables, fruits and protein sources such as crickets, mealworms and wax worms.
It is important to feed them the right amount of food for their size and age, as overfeeding can lead to obesity.
Adding Mental Stimulation to Your Pet’s Life
Bearded dragons need mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. This can be provided through interactive toys, such as balls or tunnels, and by providing them with a variety of branches and rocks for climbing.
Additionally, it is important to handle your bearded dragon regularly to help them become accustomed to human contact.
Common Health Issues & Steps to Prevent Them
Bearded dragons can suffer from a variety of health issues, such as parasites, respiratory infections and metabolic bone disease.
To prevent these issues, it is important to provide your pet with the proper diet, housing setup and health care. Additionally, regular veterinary checkups are essential for early detection and treatment of any potential health problems.
Conclusion
Caring for a bearded dragon requires knowledge about their diet, housing, health care and mental stimulation. It is important to provide them with the proper environment, diet and health care to ensure they stay healthy and happy.
Additionally, regular veterinary checkups are essential for early detection and treatment of any potential health issues. With the right care, your bearded dragon can live a long and healthy life.
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