Introduction

Bearded dragons are popular pets that are loved for their unique appearance and friendly nature. They are active, curious and enjoy basking under the sun. One of the most important aspects of keeping a bearded dragon is creating the perfect environment for them. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide to help you choose and set up a bearded dragon cage.

Size of Cage

The size of your bearded dragon’s cage is important. As a general rule, the enclosure should be at least 120cm long, 60cm wide and 60cm high for one adult bearded dragon. However, if you have multiple bearded dragons, you will need to increase the size of the enclosure. Also, bear in mind that bearded dragons grow fast, so a small cage will not be suitable for them for long.

Type of Cage

Choosing the type of cage for your bearded dragon will depend on your preferences, budget and the needs of your pet. There are four main types of cages you can choose from, which are glass tanks, PVC cages, wooden vivariums and screen cages.

Glass Tanks

Glass tanks are widely used for keeping bearded dragons because they are affordable and readily available. However, they need to be large enough for your pet to move around in and have good ventilation. Also, they can be heavy, difficult to move around and hard to clean, especially if they have a wire mesh cover.

PVC Cages

PVC cages are another option for bearded dragon enclosures. They are lightweight, easy to clean and have good ventilation. They are also resistant to water and can last for many years. However, they can be expensive and may not be readily available in your local pet store.

Wooden Vivariums

Wooden vivariums can be customized to suit your needs and are an excellent choice for bearded dragons. Unlike glass tanks, they provide insulation and can regulate temperature and humidity levels. They also come in different sizes and are available in various styles and designs. However, they can be expensive, heavy and may require more maintenance.

Screen Cages

Screen cages are lightweight and provide good ventilation for your bearded dragon. They are also easy to clean and can be taken apart for storage or transportation. However, they are not suitable for climates with high humidity and may not provide enough insulation for your pet.

Temperature and Lighting

Bearded dragons are cold-blooded reptiles, which means they need to regulate their body temperature by basking under a heat source. The ideal temperature for a bearded dragon’s cage is between 30-35°C at the basking spot and around 23-26°C on the cooler side of the cage. You can achieve this by using a heat lamp or ceramic heater.

A UVB light is also important for bearded dragons because it helps them produce vitamin D3, which is necessary for the absorption of calcium. You can choose from fluorescent or compact UVB lights depending on your preference and the size of your cage. The light should be placed next to the basking spot, around 30cm away from your pet.

Substrate

The substrate you choose for your bearded dragon’s cage should be safe, clean and easy to maintain. Sand, reptile carpet or paper towels are popular choices because they are affordable and readily available. Avoid using loose substrate like gravel or wood chips, as they can be dangerous if ingested by your pet.

Decorations

Adding decorations, such as logs, rocks and plants, to your bearded dragon’s cage can provide enrichment and stimulation for your pet. It can also create a more natural environment that resembles their natural habitat. However, be sure to choose decorations that are safe and cannot harm your pet if ingested or climbed on.

Conclusion

Setting up a bearded dragon cage can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right cage setup, your bearded dragon can thrive and lead a healthy and happy life. Be sure to choose a cage that is appropriate for their needs, maintain proper temperature and lighting, and provide safe and stimulating decorations. By following these tips, you can create the perfect environment for your bearded dragon.