Don't Panic! Your Bearded Dragon is a Picky Eater
Introduction
Bearded dragons are popular pets and for good reason. They are friendly, easy to care for, and have a unique personality. But what do you do when your bearded dragon starts being a picky eater? In this blog post, we will discuss the reasons why your bearded dragon may be a picky eater and what you can do to help them.
Reasons Why Your Bearded Dragon is a Picky Eater
There can be several reasons why your bearded dragon is a picky eater. Some of these are:
- Stress: Bearded dragons can be stressed from changes in their environment or handling. This can cause them to lose their appetite.
- Illness: If your bearded dragon is sick, they may not want to eat. This is especially true if they have an infection in their mouth or digestive tract.
- Mouth or dental problems: If your bearded dragon has dental problems, they may not be able to eat properly which can cause them to lose their appetite.
- Food preferences: Just like us, bearded dragons can have their own food preferences. Some may like crickets more than mealworms or vice versa.
- Schedule: Bearded dragons are creatures of habit. If you change their feeding schedule, they may not be hungry when you offer them food.
What You Can Do to Help Your Picky Eater
Now that you know why your bearded dragon might be a picky eater let’s discuss what you can do to help them.
Ensure Your Bearded Dragon is Healthy
The first step is to make sure your bearded dragon is healthy. Take them to a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles. Your vet will perform a thorough check-up and can determine if your bearded dragon is sick. If your vet finds something wrong, they will work with you to determine the best course of treatment.
Check the Environment
Check the environment to see if anything has changed. Have you moved their enclosure? Is the temperature and humidity where it needs to be? Make sure the enclosure is clean, and there is fresh water available.
Offer a Variety of Foods
Offer a variety of food to your bearded dragon. Sometimes, they just get bored with the same old food. You can offer crickets, mealworms, superworms, dubia roaches, and greens. Experiment and see which foods your bearded dragon likes. Make sure to offer a variety of vegetables and fruits as well.
Feed Your Bearded Dragon at the Same Time Every Day
Bearded dragons are creatures of habit, and they like to be fed at the same time every day. Determine when the best time is for you and stick to it. If your bearded dragon isn’t hungry when you offer them food, it may be because they are full from snacking all day. Offer them food at the same time every day, and they will be more likely to eat.
Hand Feed Your Bearded Dragon
If your bearded dragon is a picky eater, try hand feeding them. This can be a bonding experience for you and your pet. It can also encourage them to eat more. Using tongs, offer them a piece of food and see if they will eat it.
Conclusion
Having a bearded dragon that is a picky eater can be frustrating, but it’s not uncommon. By following the tips in this blog post, you can help make sure your bearded dragon is healthy and happy. Remember, be patient and offer a variety of foods. If you’re still having trouble, consult with a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles.