Can Bearded Dragons Eat Egg Shells? (The Definitive Guide)

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Egg Shells?

Bearded dragons are popular pets, and for good reason. They’re relatively easy to care for, and they’re known for being friendly and interactive. But one question that often comes up is whether or not bearded dragons can eat egg shells.

The answer is yes, bearded dragons can eat egg shells. In fact, egg shells are a good source of calcium and other nutrients for bearded dragons. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when feeding egg shells to your bearded dragon.

First, make sure that the egg shells are clean. You can wash them off with warm water and dish soap, or you can bake them in the oven for a few minutes to kill any bacteria.

Second, only give your bearded dragon small pieces of egg shell at a time. Too much egg shell can cause digestive problems.

Finally, make sure that your bearded dragon is getting enough calcium from other sources in its diet. This includes leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits.

By following these tips, you can safely feed egg shells to your bearded dragon and help them stay healthy and strong.

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Egg Shells? Yes No
Benefits
  • Provide calcium
  • Help with digestion
  • Prevent constipation
Risks
  • Can cause impaction
  • Can be a choking hazard
  • Bearded dragons can eat egg shells, but it should be done in moderation
  • Always supervise your bearded dragon when they are eating egg shells

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Egg Shells?

Benefits of Eating Egg Shells for Bearded Dragons

Egg shells are a good source of calcium for bearded dragons. Calcium is an essential mineral for bearded dragons, as it helps to build and maintain strong bones and teeth. It also helps with blood clotting and muscle function.

In addition to calcium, egg shells also contain other nutrients that are beneficial for bearded dragons, including phosphorus, magnesium, and trace minerals. Phosphorus is important for bone health, magnesium helps with muscle function and nerve transmission, and trace minerals are essential for a variety of bodily functions.

Egg shells can also help with digestion in bearded dragons. The calcium in egg shells helps to neutralize stomach acids and promote the formation of healthy gut bacteria. This can help to improve digestion and reduce the risk of digestive problems.

Finally, some studies have shown that eating egg shells may help to reduce the risk of certain diseases in bearded dragons. For example, one study found that bearded dragons that were fed egg shells had a lower incidence of metabolic bone disease than those that were not fed egg shells. Metabolic bone disease is a condition that can occur in bearded dragons when they do not get enough calcium in their diet. It can lead to a variety of health problems, including bone fractures and deformities.

How to Feed Egg Shells to Bearded Dragons

There are a few different ways to feed egg shells to bearded dragons. One way is to crush the egg shells into a fine powder and mix them with the bearded dragon’s food. Another way is to bake the egg shells in the oven until they are dry and brittle, then crush them into a powder. You can also give your bearded dragon whole egg shells to eat. However, you should make sure that the egg shells are clean and free of any bacteria.

When feeding egg shells to your bearded dragon, it is important to start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount over time. This will help to prevent your bearded dragon from getting an upset stomach. You should also make sure that your bearded dragon has access to fresh water at all times.

The amount of egg shells that you feed your bearded dragon will depend on its age and size. A good rule of thumb is to feed your bearded dragon about 1/4 teaspoon of egg shells per day for every 10 pounds of body weight.

You should feed your bearded dragon egg shells at least once a week. However, you can feed them egg shells more often if you think they need more calcium.

Egg shells are a good source of calcium and other nutrients for bearded dragons. They can help to improve digestion, reduce the risk of certain diseases, and promote overall health. However, it is important to feed egg shells to your bearded dragon in moderation. Too much calcium can be harmful to bearded dragons.

If you are unsure whether or not your bearded dragon should eat egg shells, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you determine the best diet for your bearded dragon.

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Egg Shells?

Overview

Bearded dragons are omnivorous creatures that enjoy a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, insects, and meat. While it is not common for bearded dragons to eat egg shells, there are some benefits to doing so. Egg shells are a good source of calcium, which is essential for bearded dragons’ bone health. They are also a good source of other nutrients, such as protein and phosphorus.

However, there are also some risks associated with eating egg shells. Egg shells can be a choking hazard, and they can also contain bacteria that can make bearded dragons sick. It is important to take precautions to avoid these risks when feeding egg shells to your bearded dragon.

Benefits of Eating Egg Shells

Egg shells are a good source of calcium, which is essential for bearded dragons’ bone health. Calcium is also important for the proper functioning of the heart, muscles, and nervous system.

In addition to calcium, egg shells also contain other nutrients, such as protein and phosphorus. Protein is essential for growth and repair, and phosphorus is important for bone health.

Risks of Eating Egg Shells

There are some risks associated with eating egg shells, including:

  • Choking hazard: Egg shells can be a choking hazard for bearded dragons, especially if they are small. It is important to cut the egg shells into small pieces before feeding them to your bearded dragon.
  • Bacterial contamination: Egg shells can contain bacteria that can make bearded dragons sick. It is important to wash the egg shells thoroughly before feeding them to your bearded dragon.

How to Avoid These Risks

There are a few things you can do to avoid the risks associated with eating egg shells:

  • Cut the egg shells into small pieces: This will help to reduce the risk of choking.
  • Wash the egg shells thoroughly: This will help to remove any bacteria that may be present.
  • Do not feed your bearded dragon egg shells that have been cooked or processed: Cooking or processing egg shells can destroy the nutrients they contain.

FAQs

Can bearded dragons eat eggshells from any type of egg?

Yes, bearded dragons can eat eggshells from any type of egg, including chicken eggs, duck eggs, and quail eggs.

Can bearded dragons eat eggshells that have been cooked or processed?

No, bearded dragons should not eat eggshells that have been cooked or processed. Cooking or processing egg shells can destroy the nutrients they contain.

How often should I feed my bearded dragon eggshells?

You should only feed your bearded dragon eggshells once or twice a week. Eggshells are a high-calcium food, and too much calcium can be harmful to bearded dragons.

What if my bearded dragon doesn’t want to eat eggshells?

If your bearded dragon doesn’t want to eat eggshells, you can try mixing them with other foods, such as fruits or vegetables. You can also try crushing the eggshells into a powder and sprinkling them on your bearded dragon’s food.

Egg shells can be a healthy and nutritious addition to your bearded dragon’s diet. However, it is important to take precautions to avoid the risks associated with eating egg shells. By following the tips in this article, you can help your bearded dragon enjoy a long and healthy life.

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Egg Shells?

Yes, bearded dragons can eat egg shells. Egg shells are a good source of calcium and other nutrients, and can help to keep your bearded dragon’s bones healthy. However, it is important to only give your bearded dragon egg shells that have been thoroughly cleaned and cooked.

How much egg shell should I give my bearded dragon?

A good rule of thumb is to give your bearded dragon about the size of a pea of egg shell per day. You can increase or decrease the amount of egg shell you give your bearded dragon depending on their individual needs.

What are the benefits of giving my bearded dragon egg shells?

Egg shells are a good source of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth. Calcium also helps to regulate the heartbeat and blood clotting. Egg shells also contain other nutrients, such as phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc.

What are the risks of giving my bearded dragon egg shells?

There are no known risks associated with giving your bearded dragon egg shells. However, it is important to make sure that the egg shells are thoroughly cleaned and cooked before giving them to your bearded dragon.

How do I clean and cook egg shells for my bearded dragon?

To clean egg shells, you can either:

  • Soak the egg shells in a solution of vinegar and water for 10-15 minutes.
  • Scrub the egg shells with a toothbrush.

Once the egg shells are clean, you can cook them by:

  • Baking them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes.
  • Boiling them for 10-15 minutes.

Can I give my bearded dragon other calcium supplements?

Yes, you can give your bearded dragon other calcium supplements in addition to egg shells. However, it is important to make sure that the calcium supplement you are giving your bearded dragon is specifically designed for reptiles. You should also avoid giving your bearded dragon too much calcium, as this can lead to health problems.

How much calcium should I give my bearded dragon?

A good rule of thumb is to give your bearded dragon about 1 gram of calcium per day for every 100 grams of body weight. However, you should consult with your veterinarian to determine the specific calcium requirements for your bearded dragon.

What are the signs of calcium deficiency in bearded dragons?

The signs of calcium deficiency in bearded dragons include:

  • Soft bones
  • Brittle bones
  • Skeletal deformities
  • Difficulty walking or standing
  • Muscle spasms
  • Convulsions

If you think your bearded dragon is suffering from a calcium deficiency, you should take them to the veterinarian immediately.

How can I prevent calcium deficiency in my bearded dragon?

You can prevent calcium deficiency in your bearded dragon by:

  • Providing them with a diet that is rich in calcium.
  • Giving them a calcium supplement.
  • Exposing them to UVB light.
  • Making sure they have access to a basking spot.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy.

bearded dragons can eat egg shells, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, egg shells should only be given to adult bearded dragons, as they can be a choking hazard for younger dragons. Second, egg shells should be crushed into a fine powder before being given to the dragon, as they can cause intestinal blockage if they are not properly digested. Third, egg shells should only be given to bearded dragons as a treat, and should not make up more than 10% of their diet. By following these guidelines, you can safely give your bearded dragon the nutritional benefits of egg shells without any of the risks.

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Kelsey Hammons
Kelsey Hammons
I was born and raised in the fabulous state of Maryland but recently decided to pack up my stuff and move to the Midwest city they call Chicago.

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