What Bearded Dragons Can’t Eat [20 Unsafe Foods]

Today, let’s dive into the fascinating world of bearded dragons and explore what foods you should definitely keep off their menu.

These little reptilian buddies have unique dietary needs, so it’s crucial to know which treats to avoid to keep them happy and healthy.

So, let’s uncover the top foods that bearded dragons can’t eat and ensure our scaly friends are always in good shape!

What Bearded Dragons Can’t Eat

Avoid feeding your bearded dragon wild-caught bugs, iceberg lettuce, onions, chives, mushrooms, garlic, rhubarb, avocados, and eggplants.

Additionally, avoid feeding your bearded dragon fireflies, ladybugs, and Box elder bugs as they are toxic and potentially fatal to bearded dragons.

It is important to note that bearded dragons are omnivorous and require a balanced diet consisting of both insects and vegetables.

Additionally, it is not recommended to feed bearded dragons cat or dog food as it is processed and unsuitable for their dietary needs.

Learn more about reasons your bearded dragon is not eating.

Foods Bearded Dragons Can’t Eat

Here are some of the most common foods bearded dragons can’t eat and why they can’t:

1. Garlic

Ah, garlic, the aromatic herb that adds flavor to our dishes! While we enjoy its taste and health benefits, it’s important to keep it away from bearded dragons.

Garlic contains compounds that can be toxic to them. These compounds, like thiosulphate, can cause digestive issues, anemia, and even damage their red blood cells.

So, it’s best to save the garlic for our own meals and not share it with our bearded dragon pals.

2. Rhubarb

Rhubarb is a unique plant with tart stalks that make for delicious pies and jams. However, when it comes to bearded dragons, rhubarb is a big no-no.

The leaves of the rhubarb plant contain high levels of oxalic acid, which can be harmful to reptiles.

Ingesting rhubarb can lead to kidney problems and even cause calcium deficiency in bearded dragons.

So, let’s enjoy our rhubarb treats ourselves and keep them away from our scaly companions.

3. Iceberg Lettuce

Ah, iceberg lettuce, the crispy and refreshing green that often finds its way into our salads.

But unfortunately, it’s not the best choice for bearded dragons.

While it may provide some hydration, iceberg lettuce lacks essential nutrients and has a high water content, which can lead to diarrhea and dehydration in bearded dragons.

It’s better to opt for darker and leafier greens like kale, collard greens, or dandelion greens, which provide a more balanced diet for our scaly friends.

4. Onions

Onions, with their pungent flavor and ability to add depth to our dishes, should be kept far away from our bearded dragons.

Onions, along with other members of the allium family like garlic and shallots, contain compounds that can be toxic to reptiles.

These compounds can damage their red blood cells and lead to anemia. So, while we enjoy the taste of onions, let’s remember to keep them out of our bearded dragon’s diet.

5. Avocado

Ah, the creamy and nutritious avocado, a popular fruit among many of us.

But when it comes to bearded dragons, they should steer clear of this green delight.

Avocados contain a substance called persin, which is toxic to many animals, including reptiles.

Ingesting avocado can lead to digestive issues, heart problems, and even respiratory distress in bearded dragons.

So, let’s reserve the avocado toast for ourselves and find other suitable options for our scaly companions.

6. Lemons

Lemons, although tangy and refreshing for humans, are not recommended for bearded dragons.

They are highly acidic fruits that can disrupt the delicate pH balance in your dragon’s digestive system.

The high acidity can cause stomach upset, leading to discomfort and potential health issues.

It’s best to avoid feeding lemons to your bearded dragon to keep their digestive system happy and healthy.

7. Eggplants

While eggplants may be a delicious addition to our meals, they are not suitable for bearded dragons.

Eggplants belong to the nightshade family, and their leaves, stems, and unripe fruits contain a compound called solanine.

Solanine is toxic to bearded dragons and can cause gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea.

It’s best to steer clear of feeding eggplants to your scaly friend to ensure their well-being.

8. Mushrooms

Mushrooms come in various shapes, sizes, and flavors, but they are not a safe food choice for bearded dragons.

The majority of mushrooms, including the ones we commonly consume, can be toxic to reptiles.

They can cause digestive upset and, in severe cases, liver damage.

It’s crucial to avoid offering any mushrooms to your bearded dragon and stick to their recommended diet for optimal health.

9. Chives

While chives may add a delightful flavor to our dishes, they should be kept away from bearded dragons.

Chives, along with other members of the allium family (such as onions and garlic), contain compounds that can be harmful to reptiles.

These compounds can damage a bearded dragon’s red blood cells, leading to anemia and other health complications.

To ensure the well-being of your scaly companion, it’s best to avoid feeding them chives or any other allium vegetables.

10. Venomous insects

It’s essential to remember that bearded dragons are not equipped to handle venomous insects.

Venomous insects, such as spiders and scorpions, can pose a significant threat to their health and safety.

The venom from these insects can cause severe reactions, including swelling, pain, and even organ damage.

It’s crucial to ensure the environment where your bearded dragon resides is free from such insects to prevent any accidental encounters.

11. Butterflies and Caterpillars

Butterflies and caterpillars should be avoided as food for bearded dragons.

While they may seem like a tasty treat, they can actually be toxic to these reptiles.

Many butterflies and caterpillars contain toxins, which can be harmful or even fatal if ingested by bearded dragons.

To ensure the health and safety of your bearded dragon, it’s best to avoid feeding them these insects altogether.

12. High Sugar and Fat Foods

Just like humans, bearded dragons need a balanced and nutritious diet to thrive.

High sugar and fat foods, such as sugary fruits, processed snacks, and fatty meats, should be avoided.

These foods can lead to weight gain, digestive issues, and even metabolic disorders in bearded dragons.

Instead, focus on feeding them a variety of leafy greens, vegetables, and appropriate insects to provide them with the essential nutrients they need.

13. Ladybugs

While ladybugs may seem harmless, they can actually be toxic to bearded dragons.

Ladybugs produce a substance called cantharidin, which is a defense mechanism against predators.

Ingesting ladybugs can lead to gastrointestinal problems, mouth sores, and even kidney issues in bearded dragons.

It’s best to keep them away from your bearded dragon’s diet to ensure their well-being.

14. Raw Beans

Raw beans, such as kidney beans, can be toxic to bearded dragons.

They contain lectins, which are natural toxins that can cause digestive problems and hinder nutrient absorption in reptiles.

It’s important to always cook beans thoroughly before feeding them to your bearded dragon.

This process helps to break down the lectins and make the beans safe for consumption.

15. Tomato leaves and stems

While tomatoes themselves are safe for bearded dragons in moderation, their leaves and stems should be avoided.

Tomato leaves and stems contain a substance called solanine, which is toxic to reptiles.

Ingesting solanine can lead to digestive issues, weakness, and even paralysis in bearded dragons.

To ensure the well-being of your pet, it’s best to remove the leaves and stems before feeding them tomatoes.

16. Spinach

While spinach is generally considered a healthy leafy green, it’s not suitable for bearded dragons.

This is because spinach contains high levels of oxalates, which can bind to calcium and prevent its absorption.

Bearded dragons require calcium for proper bone growth and overall health.

Consuming too much spinach can lead to calcium deficiency, metabolic bone disease, and other health issues.

17. Fireflies

It may seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that bearded dragons should never be fed fireflies or any other type of insect that produces bioluminescence.

Fireflies contain a toxic substance called lucibufagins, which can be harmful or even fatal to bearded dragons if ingested.

It’s always essential to provide safe and appropriate insect options for your bearded dragon’s diet.

18. Acidic fruits

While fruits can be a healthy addition to a bearded dragon’s diet, it’s important to avoid feeding them acidic fruits such as citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, lemons, and grapefruits).

Acidic fruits can cause digestive upset and may irritate the gastrointestinal tract of bearded dragons.

Stick to feeding them fruits with lower acidity levels, such as apples, berries, and melons.

19. Beet tops

Although beet tops are rich in various nutrients, they are not recommended for bearded dragons.

The reason behind this is their high oxalate content, similar to spinach.

As mentioned earlier, oxalates interfere with calcium absorption, which can lead to serious health issues in bearded dragons.

It’s best to opt for other leafy greens that are low in oxalates, such as collard greens or mustard greens.

20. Leeks

While leeks are a flavorful addition to human meals, they are not suitable for bearded dragons.

Leeks, along with other members of the allium family like onions and garlic, contain compounds that can be toxic to reptiles.

These compounds can cause hemolytic anemia, a condition where red blood cells are destroyed.

It’s crucial to avoid feeding your bearded dragon any food from the allium family to ensure their well-being.

Learn more about bearded dragons dislikes and likes.

FAQs

Can bearded dragons eat fruits and vegetables?

While bearded dragons do enjoy fruits and vegetables, there are certain ones that they should avoid. Be cautious of feeding them citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, as the high acidity can upset their stomachs. Additionally, avoid feeding them avocados, rhubarb, or any type of fruit or vegetable with high oxalate content, as it can lead to kidney issues.

Is it safe to feed bearded dragons insects?

Yes, it is safe to feed bearded dragons insects as they are an important part of their diet. However, be mindful of the size and type of insects you offer. Avoid feeding them insects that are too large, as they can cause choking or digestive problems. Also, refrain from feeding them insects caught in the wild, as they may have been exposed to pesticides or parasites.

Can bearded dragons eat dairy products?

No, bearded dragons should not be given dairy products. Their digestive system is not designed to process lactose, which is found in milk and other dairy items. Feeding them dairy can cause digestive upset and discomfort.

Are there any plants that bearded dragons should avoid?

Yes, there are several plants that should be avoided when feeding your bearded dragon. Some common examples include plants from the nightshade family, such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants, as they contain harmful toxins. Other plants to avoid include onions, garlic, and any plants with thorns or spines.

Can bearded dragons eat processed or sugary foods?

No, it is not recommended to feed bearded dragons processed or sugary foods. These types of foods can lead to obesity, dental issues, and digestive problems for your pet. Stick to a diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, and insects to ensure their overall health and well-being.

Is it safe to feed bearded dragons insects caught in the wild?

It is best to avoid feeding bearded dragons insects caught in the wild. These insects may have been exposed to pesticides, parasites, or diseases that can harm your pet. To ensure the safety and health of your bearded dragon, it is recommended to purchase insects from reputable sources or breed them yourself.

Learn more about health problems in bearded dragon.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it’s important to know what foods to avoid when it comes to feeding your bearded dragon. Remember, they can’t eat citrus fruits, avocados, or insects caught in the wild. By sticking to a safe and nutritious diet, you’ll keep your scaly friend healthy and happy for years to come. So, let’s be mindful of their dietary needs and keep those bearded dragons thriving!