Bearded Dragon Kits: The Ultimate Guide for Beginners
Introduction
If you’re a first-time bearded dragon owner, you might be wondering what supplies you need to get started. That’s where a bearded dragon kit comes in! A kit will typically contain all of the basics you need to provide a comfortable and healthy environment for your new pet. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bearded dragon kits, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
What’s Included in a Bearded Dragon Kit?
A bearded dragon kit will typically include the following items:
- A terrarium or enclosure
- Heat source (such as a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter)
- UVB lighting
- Substrate (such as reptile carpet or calcium sand)
- Food and water dishes
- Thermometer and hygrometer
- Decorations or hides
Choosing the Right Kit
Not all bearded dragon starter kits are created equal, so it’s important to choose one that meets your specific needs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a bearded dragon kit:
Size
Bearded dragons require a relatively large enclosure, so make sure that the kit you choose includes a terrarium that’s the appropriate size for your dragon. As a general rule, the enclosure should be at least 40 gallons for one adult bearded dragon, with an additional 10 gallons for each additional dragon.
Lighting and Heating
Bearded dragons require both UVB lighting and a heat source in order to thrive. Make sure that the kit you choose includes both, and that the wattage of the heat source is appropriate for the size of the enclosure.
Substrate
There are a variety of substrates available for bearded dragons, but some are better than others. Avoid using loose substrates like sand or wood shavings, as these can be ingested by your dragon and lead to impaction. Reptile carpet, ceramic tile, or paper towels are all safer options.
Accessories
While decorations and hides aren’t strictly necessary, they can provide a more stimulating environment for your dragon. Look for a kit that includes a few basic accessories, like a basking spot or a hide for your dragon to retreat to.
Additional Supplies
In addition to the items included in a bearded dragon kit, there are a few other supplies you’ll need to provide for your dragon:
Food
Bearded dragons require a varied diet of insects and vegetables. Make sure that you have the appropriate food and supplements on hand.
Cleaning Supplies
Bearded dragons can be messy creatures, so make sure that you have a plan in place for keeping their enclosure clean. You’ll need a reptile-safe disinfectant, as well as paper towels or other cleaning supplies.
Conclusion
A bearded dragon kit can be a great way to get started with these fascinating pets. Just make sure that you choose a kit that includes all of the essentials, and that you supplement with additional supplies as needed. With a little bit of preparation, you’ll be well on your way to providing a comfortable and healthy home for your new bearded dragon!