Bearded dragons have a versatile diet that includes insects, vegetables, and fruits. Many fruits fall into the category of being safe for bearded dragons to eat. For example, bearded dragons can eat tomatoes safely and in small portions, as well as most other fruits.
However, you do have to be careful when you feed tomatoes to your bearded dragon. There is a proper way to serve them, and the frequency needs to be sparing.
If you want to know more about how to serve tomatoes to a bearded dragon, their nutritional benefits and risks, and what your other options are, keep on reading.
How to Serve Tomatoes to Your Dragon and How Often
Tomatoes are not the best treats for your bearded dragon, but they can have them and stay healthy if they do not eat them often. You should avoid giving tomatoes to your bearded dragon more than once a month.
You can serve raw tomatoes to your bearded dragon, but they should get only a quarter of tomato once a month at the most.
When you prepare it, wash it thoroughly to get rid of any damaging chemicals. Remove the seeds and pulp from the interior; the seeds can contain harmful toxins dangerous to small reptiles.
Cut a quarter of the tomato off, and then cut this into tiny bite-sized pieces to make them easy to chew.
Nutritional Benefits of Tomatoes for Bearded Dragons
Tomatoes have minor health benefits for bearded dragons. They contain vitamins A, C, and K.
Risks of Feeding Your Bearded Dragon Tomatoes
The risks of feeding tomato to your bearded dragon can often make it seem more dangerous than it is worth. However, it is up to you as their owner and the overall balance of their diet.
Can Bearded Dragons Eats Leaves and Stems From Tomato Plants?
No, bearded dragons should not eat the stems or leaves of a tomato plant, and they shouldn’t nibble on the vines or flowers either. This plant is part of a poisonous family called nightshade. All the tomato’s elements apart from the fruit contain toxic alkaloids that can quickly kill your dragon.
Other Fruits and Vegetables That Are Safer for Bearded Dragons Than Tomatoes
You may have decided that it is not worth it to give your beardie a taste of tomato. Take heart knowing that there are plenty of alternative fruits and vegetables that you can try instead.
Remember that healthy fruits and vegetables, especially dark leafy greens, should be a staple of your beardie’s diet. To ensure that they are getting the right amount and frequency of feeding, make a feeding schedule. Feeding them the best food of the proper amount is a great way to be a responsible dragon owner.
Featured image: Lernestorod, Pixabay
