When Your Bearded Dragon Won't Eat Greens Anymore
Why Won’t My Bearded Dragon Eat Greens?
Bearded Dragons are known for their diverse diet that includes both live insects and leafy greens. However, sometimes a bearded dragon will suddenly stop eating greens, and it can be concerning for pet owners. There are several reasons why your bearded dragon might not be interested in their greens, including:
- Health Problems
- Boredom with the Same Foods
- Improper Lighting or Temperature in Their Habitat
- Too Many Live Insects in Their Diet
What Should I Do if My Bearded Dragon Won’t Eat Greens?
If your bearded dragon refuses to eat their greens, the first step is to make sure there are no underlying health issues. Some common health problems that can impact appetite in bearded dragons include:
- Parasites
- Respiratory Infections
- Mouth Infections
- Metabolic Bone Disease
If you suspect that your bearded dragon is sick, it’s important to take them to a reptile vet as soon as possible. However, if your bearded dragon is healthy but simply refuses to eat greens, there are several steps you can take to encourage them to eat:
1. Offer a Variety of Greens
Just like humans, bearded dragons can become bored with the same foods day after day. Try offering a variety of greens, such as kale, collard greens, mustard greens, and dandelion greens, to keep your bearded dragon interested in their greens.
2. Mix Greens with Insects
Another way to encourage your bearded dragon to eat their greens is to mix them with their live insects. Chop up some greens and mix them with crickets, mealworms or other live insects. This will also ensure that your bearded dragon is getting a balanced diet of protein and greens.
3. Offer Greens in a Different Way
Sometimes, bearded dragons won’t eat greens because they don’t recognize them as food. Try presenting the greens in a different way, such as hanging them from the top of their habitat or hand feeding them the greens.
Conclusion
If your bearded dragon won’t eat their greens, it’s important to rule out any underlying health problems that may be impacting their appetite. If they’re healthy, then offering a variety of greens, mixing them with live insects, and presenting them in a different way can all encourage your bearded dragon to eat their greens once again. As always, if you’re unsure what to do, consult with a veterinarian or a reptile expert for further guidance.