Can Bearded Dragons Eat Asparagus? TopFlight Dubia’s Take
Posted by David Parker on Apr 5th 2024
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Bearded dragons thrive on a well-balanced diet, but not all vegetables are safe.
Vegetables are crucial to bearded dragons' diet, providing nutrients for healthy bones, immune system, and overall health.
You have likely come across safe vegetables that beardies can eat, such as:
- Collard greens
- Butternut squash
- Turnip greens and many more.
However, when it comes to adding a new vegetable like asparagus, it might make you hesitate. As a responsible parent, you always want to ensure that what you give to your pet doesn’t taste good but also nourished their body properly.
In fact, asparagus is undeniably a nutritious vegetable for humans. Known for its unique, earthy flavor and is packed with essential nutrients like vitamins A, C, and folic acid.
But, when it comes to your bearded dragon with a delicate digestive system, you might wonder: Is it really safe for them?
Will it enhance their health, or could it cause harm?
Let’s discuss more about this in the TopFlight Dubia’s guide!
Is Asparagus OK for Bearded Dragons?
Bearded dragons can eat asparagus, but occasionally, preferably once a week.
What Nutrients Are Present in Asparagus?
Let’s learn about the nutrients in asparagus that can benefit beardies.
Source: According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the amount of nutrients is as per 100 grams of asparagus.
Why Beardies Can’t Eat Asparagus Daily?
Asparagus can only fed once a week, not every day, due to the following reasons:
Phosphorus is Higher than Calcium
In asparagus, the phosphorus is comparatively higher than the calcium. So, phosphorus can bind with calcium, thus causing calcium deficiency in the bearded dragon’s body. Over time, it can lead to metabolic bone disease(MBD).
Presence of Oxalates
Asparagus contains a moderate amount of oxalate. However, oxalates in high amounts can prevent calcium absorption and other minerals in the bearded dragon’s body.
How To Cut Asparagus For Beardies?
Let’s learn how to cut the asparagus for beardies.
- Choose a fresh asparagus that:
- Have stalks that are firm and snap easily when bent
- Have tightly closed tips
- Have a vibrant green color
- Are smooth to the touch
- Wash the asparagus under cool running water.
- Cut the asparagus into very small pieces. You can trim the ends and then cut the spears in half or into slices.
- Finally, you can feed the pieces of asparagus raw or cooked but do not add ingredients like salt, oil, pepper, etc.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons can have asparagus, but occasionally once a month. It can’t be fed daily due to its higher amount of phosphorus than calcium, the presence of oxalates, and many more. However, when offering asparagus to your pet, make sure to cut it into small pieces. Also, monitor the reaction of your pet eating asparagus. Finally, remember to discuss with a veterinarian the specific nutrients your beardie needs.