Can Bearded Dragons Eat Bananas? Benefits, Dangers & How to Feed

Bearded Dragons are well-known lizards that belong to the Agamidae family of reptiles. Eight species of Bearded Dragons are in the wild, and each showcases different colors and unique behavioral patterns. The central Bearded Dragon is the most common, also known as Pogona vitticeps. 

Presently, Bearded Dragons are known to be the best pet lizards. These are fascinating lizards with brown, tan, and yellowish-orange colors. They are found in the arid or semi-arid areas of Southern Australia. These reptiles are cold-blooded, which means they prefer areas with warm temperatures.

As pet owners of these fascinating lizards, people have a few questions regarding their diet, and one of the most common questions is, can Bearded Dragons eat bananas? 

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Bananas?

The answer is yes, Bearded Dragons can eat bananas, but they should be fed in moderation while keeping certain things in mind.

Bananas are the third most popular fruit. They make a great source of energy for humans, but what about your bearded pet dragon?

As these reptiles are omnivores, feeding them bananas should be a once-in-a-while thing and given to them as a treat. 

Health Benefits of Bananas for Bearded Dragons

Bananas are rich in fiber, potassium, vitamin C and B6, and other essential nutrients. The idea of adding bananas into the diet of your beardie pet will be beneficial for their overall health. 

Antioxidants in bananas can help in preventing cell damage caused by free radicals. Potassium can improve the kidney function of your Bearded Dragon, and it will keep them energetic.

Vitamin A is helpful in the development of the eyes, and it keeps eyesight healthy. Vitamin C helps increase immunity, which keeps them safe from harmful diseases.

Dangers of Bananas for Bearded Dragons

If you are the pet owner of a Bearded Dragon, you should consult the vet before making any changes to the diet of your pet beardie. As bananas have natural sugar content with a traceable amount of phosphorous, if these minerals are in excess in a Bearded Dragon’s body, it can take an ugly turn very quickly. 

Here are some bananas’ dangers to Bearded Dragons:

Spike up Sugar Level

Just like many other fruits, bananas also have natural sugar content. If you are feeding bananas regularly to your Bearded Dragon, it will spike their blood sugar levels, which in the long run will lead to problems like obesity, digestion issues, and tooth decay.

Inappropriate Phosphorus to Calcium Ratio Hinder Calcium Absorption

Bearded Dragons’ bodies require calcium more than phosphorus. Knowing the ratio of phosphorus to calcium your pet beardie is getting from bananas is essential. One recommended ratio from experts is 1:1 or 2:1, but bananas naturally contain a 3:1 ratio of phosphorous to calcium.  

An excess of phosphorous will hinder the process of calcium absorption, which can cause a deadly condition known as a metabolic bone disease (MBD).

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Banana Peels?

Yes, beardies can eat banana peels; you should feed them bananas with peels on. The peel will give them extra protein, dietary fiber, and other essential nutrients. 

It’s always good to prefer organic bananas because the peel might contain harmful pesticide residues if grown inorganically. If you cannot find organic bananas, wash and clean them, so no toxic chemicals are left on the peel.

What About Frozen or Dried Bananas for Bearded Dragon?

Do not feed frozen or dried bananas to your Bearded Dragon. Any frozen or dried fruit will lose its natural nutritional value and contain high sugar, which does more harm than benefit. Always opt for freshly available bananas.

How Often Should I feed Bananas to My Bearded Dragon?

Feed them bananas occasionally, just as a treat once in a while, and you will be good to go. Feeding bananas to your Bearded Dragon benefits Bearded Dragon health, but just like anything else, moderation is the key. Excessive feeding of bananas can also make them dependent on sugar, resulting in a loss of appetite for other foods.

Why Should Bananas Not be Used as a Staple Food for Bearded Dragons?

Bananas should not be used as a staple food for your pet beardie as it may adversely affect its health. High sugar content and a higher phosphorous to calcium ratio than recommended are reasons bananas should not be used as a staple food for your pet.

Some of the best staple foods for your Bearded Dragon are prickly pear, turnip greens, mustard greens, and other green veggies. You can feed them bananas once in a while without compromising their health.

How Can I Feed Bananas to Bearded Dragon?

1: Small Portions are Easy to Consume

When feeding bananas to your pet, always feed them in small portions. Slice the raw banana with the peel into small amounts, making it easier for your Bearded Dragon to consume.

By doing so, you will reduce the chances of choking hazards.

2: Salad With Banana Toppings Serve Good

If you are serving salad in a bowl, top it up with small slices of banana because that will be the first thing your pet will eat from the bowl. 

3: Feeding with Hand Makes the Bond Stronger 

Another way to feed your pet bananas is to peel off or hold the banana in front of your pet beardie and let it eat itself slowly. It will also help enhance the bond between the pet and its owners.

Conclusion

Bearded Dragons are fascinating reptiles and omnivores who eat various foods such as vegetables, insects, and fruits. So, the answer to can Bearded Dragons eat bananas is Yes, you can also feed them bananas, but in moderation.

Feed your pet beardie with bananas occasionally like a treat. Feeding bananas regularly could be lethal for the health of your pet. Sugar content and a higher phosphorous to calcium ratio are reasons you should not make bananas a staple food for your Bearded Dragon.

Bearded Dragons also eat fruits like raspberries, strawberries, apricots, and many more, which you can feed without risking or endangering their health.     

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