Bearded dragons are cool reptiles that many people love as pets. They look unique and are generally calm, which makes them a popular choice for reptile fans.
Yes, bearded dragons can eat cabbage, but only in small amounts. It’s safe to offer green cabbage once a week. They balance their diet with other vegetables and fruits like carrots, bananas, and broccoli.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of feeding cabbage to your bearded dragon and provide guidelines for safely incorporating it into their meals.
Cabbage Nutrition
Cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse, making it a great addition to your bearded dragon’s diet. Cabbage is packed with vitamins and minerals and provides essential nutrients that support your pet’s overall health. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Calories: 25 cal per 100g
- Water Content: 92.18g
- Carbohydrates: 5.8g
- Proteins: 1.28g
- Calcium: 40mg
- Phosphorus: 26mg
- Vitamin C: 36.6mg
Cabbage also contains a good amount of fiber, which aids in digestion, and a healthy Ca (Calcium to Phosphorus) ratio of 1.5:1, perfect for bearded dragons.
1. Cabbage Health Concerns
Cabbage is generally safe for bearded dragons but has a health risk called goitrogens. Goitrogens can affect your dragon’s thyroid, leading to problems if fed too often.
Offer cabbage only 2-3 times weekly to keep your bearded dragon healthy. This way, they get the benefits without the risk of thyroid issues.
Types of Cabbage and Their Suitability
There are several types of cabbage, each with slightly different nutritional profiles and benefits for bearded dragons.
1. Green Cabbage
The most common type, green cabbage, is safe for bearded dragons in moderation. It offers a good balance of nutrients and is easy to find.
2. Red Cabbage
Red cabbage contains more antioxidants than green cabbage, particularly anthocyanins, which give it its purple color. It’s a safe option for bearded dragons but should still be fed in moderation.
3. Savoy Cabbage
Savoy cabbage has crinkly leaves and a milder flavor. It’s also safe for bearded dragons but is less commonly available.
4. Napa Cabbage
Napa cabbage, often used in Asian cuisine, is lighter and has a more delicate texture. It is suitable for bearded dragons but should be given in smaller amounts.
How to Feed Cabbage to Bearded Dragons
1. Cabbage Preparation
Proper preparation is critical to ensuring cabbage is safe and enjoyable for your bearded dragon:
- Wash Thoroughly: Remove debris or chemicals by washing the cabbage under running water.
- Remove Tough Stalks: These can be hard to digest, so stick to the softer leaves.
- Chop Small: Pieces should be no larger than the space between your dragon’s eyes to prevent choking.
Alternatives to Cabbage
1. Other Leafy Greens
Kale, collard greens, and mustard greens are excellent alternatives to cabbage. They offer higher calcium levels, which are crucial for bearded dragons.
2. Vegetables High in Calcium
Vegetables like turnip greens, dandelion greens, and butternut squash are excellent sources of calcium and should be a regular part of your bearded dragon’s diet.
3. Safe Fruits for Bearded Dragons
Fruits like blueberries, strawberries, and apples can be offered occasionally as treats. They provide vitamins and hydration but should not replace vegetables.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Red Cabbage?
Yes, Bearded dragons can safely eat red cabbage. It contains vitamins like C and K and antioxidants supporting their health.
Red cabbage is nutritious and safe for your dragon so you can eat it a few times a week. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces to avoid choking.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Green Cabbage?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat green cabbage, but in moderation. While it has good nutrients like calcium, it also contains goitrogens, which can affect thyroid health.
To be safe, feed green cabbage only once a week. This helps avoid potential thyroid problems while giving your dragon a healthy snack.
Also Read: Can Bearded Dragons Eat Maggots? – Nutrition & Safety Tips!
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Savoy Cabbage?
Bearded dragons can eat Savoy cabbage, but there are better choices. Savoy cabbage is more acidic and has more phosphorus than calcium, which could be better.
It also contains goitrogens and high levels of Vitamin A, which can be risky. Feed Savoy cabbage sparingly, about once every two weeks, to avoid health issues.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Napa Cabbage?
Yes, Bearded dragons can safely eat Napa cabbage. This cabbage is sweet and contains vitamins like C and A. It also has more calcium than phosphorus, making it a safe choice. However, since it contains goitrogens, offer Napa cabbage only once weekly to keep your dragon healthy.
How Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cabbage?
Bearded dragons should eat cabbage raw. Start by washing the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or chemicals. Then, chop the cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces.
Avoid feeding the stalks as they’re hard to chew. Serve the chopped leaves to your dragon as part of a balanced diet a few times a week.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cabbage Everyday
No, bearded dragons shouldn’t eat cabbage every day. Cabbage contains goitrogens, which can affect thyroid health if consumed too often. It’s safer to feed cabbage only 2-3 times a week as part of a varied diet.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cabbage And Carrots
Yes, bearded dragons can eat cabbage and carrots together. Both are healthy options when given in moderation. Cabbage should be limited to a few times a week, while carrots can be an occasional treat due to their high sugar content.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cabbage Seeds
No, bearded dragons should not eat cabbage seeds. The seeds can be hard to digest and may cause digestive problems. It’s best to stick to the leaves and avoid feeding any seeds to your bearded dragon.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Carrots
Yes, bearded dragons can eat carrots. Carrots are a healthy treat rich in vitamin A, but they should be given in moderation due to their sugar content. Offer carrots as an occasional snack rather than a daily food.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Purple Cabbage
Yes, Bearded dragons can eat purple cabbage, which is also called red cabbage. It’s nutritious and safe for them, offering plenty of vitamins and antioxidants. Feed it a few times a week as part of a balanced diet.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Lettuce
Yes, but be cautious. Bearded dragons can eat lettuce, but it could be more nutritious and is mostly water. If fed too much, it can cause diarrhea. Romaine lettuce is better than iceberg lettuce, but offering more nutritious greens is still the best.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Broccoli
Yes, bearded dragons can eat broccoli, but only in small amounts. Broccoli is high in oxalates, which can affect calcium absorption. Offer broccoli as an occasional treat, not regularly, to avoid potential health issues for your bearded dragon.
Bearded Dragon Is Crazy For Cabbage
If your bearded dragon loves cabbage, offering it a few times a week is okay. However, too much cabbage can cause thyroid issues due to goitrogens. Balance their diet with other greens to keep them healthy.
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Can Baby Bearded Dragons Eat Cabbage?
Yes, baby bearded dragons can eat cabbage, but only in small amounts. Cabbage contains goitrogens, which can affect thyroid health. Offer it occasionally, not as a staple, and mix it with other safe greens for a balanced diet.
Is Sweetheart Cabbage Safe?
Yes, sweetheart cabbage is safe for bearded dragons in moderation. Like other cabbages, it contains goitrogens, so it should be fed sparingly. Offer it as part of a varied diet to avoid any health problems.
Been Away, Beardie Has Been Fed Cabbage!
If your bearded dragon has been fed cabbage while you were away, don’t worry. Just ensure they don’t get too much cabbage moving forward. Return to a balanced diet with various greens and vegetables for overall health.
Bearded Dragons Salads
Bearded dragon salads should include a mix of safe greens and vegetables like collard greens, dandelion greens, and bell peppers. Avoid too much cabbage or lettuce, and add occasional treats like fruits or flowers for a balanced, nutritious meal.
Must Read: Do Bearded Dragons Eat Their Poop – A Pet Owner’s Guide!
Red Cabbage???
Yes, red cabbage is safe for bearded dragons and offers great nutritional benefits. It’s rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Feed it a few times a week, chopped into small pieces, as part of a balanced diet.
Cone Cabbage?
Yes, cone cabbage, also known as pointed cabbage, is safe for bearded dragons. It’s similar to regular cabbage and should be fed moderately due to goitrogens. Offer it as an occasional treat along with other greens.
Cabbage Worms From The Garden
Don’t feed cabbage worms from the garden to your bearded dragon. They may carry pesticides or parasites harmful to your pet. Stick to store-bought, pesticide-free insects or greens to ensure your bearded dragon’s safety and health.
Bok Choy… Good Or Bad?
Bok choy is good for bearded dragons in moderation. It’s rich in vitamins but contains goitrogens, which can affect thyroid health. Feed bok choy occasionally, not daily, and balance it with other safe greens for a varied diet.
Feeding List For Beardies (Whats Ok To Feed Them)
Bearded dragons can eat a variety of greens, such as collard greens, dandelion greens, and mustard greens. Other safe vegetables include bell peppers, squash, and carrots. Fruits and insects are treats. Avoid spinach, avocado, and rhubarb, which are harmful.
Check It: Can Bearded Dragons Eat Pumpkin Guts – Top Safety Tips!
What Are Some Vegetables That A Bearded Dragon Can Eat?
Bearded dragons can eat collard greens, bell peppers, squash, and carrots. Offer a variety to ensure balanced nutrition. Avoid vegetables high in oxalates or goitrogens, like spinach and cabbage, which should be fed sparingly.
What Are The Best Vegetables For Bearded Dragons?
The best vegetables for bearded dragons include collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, and bell peppers. These veggies provide essential nutrients and should make up most of their diet, along with occasional fruits and insects.
Safe To Eat?
Yes, bearded dragons can eat cabbage safely. It has some vitamins and nutrients that are good for them. However, it should only be given in small amounts because too much can upset their stomach or affect calcium absorption.
Can Bearded Dragons Have Cabbage Regularly?
Bearded dragons can eat cabbage occasionally, but only on certain days. Too much cabbage can cause health issues, like low calcium, which is essential for strong bones. Try offering it as a treat a few times a month, along with other veggies.
How Often Should Bearded Dragons Eat Cabbage?
Cabbage should be offered only once or twice a month. It’s not a daily food because of its low calcium content. Rotate cabbage with other leafy greens and veggies that are higher in calcium to keep your dragon healthy.
What If My Bearded Dragon Really Likes Cabbage?
If your bearded dragon loves cabbage, offering small amounts occasionally is okay. However, make sure they get a variety of other foods, too. You want to balance their diet to ensure they get all the nutrients they need for good health.
What Veggies Are A No No?
Some veggies, like spinach, rhubarb, and avocados, are unsafe for bearded dragons. These can be toxic or block calcium absorption. Avoid feeding them onions, garlic, and iceberg lettuce because they don’t have enough nutrients for your dragon.
FAQs
1. Can My Bearded Dragon Eat Raw Cabbage?
Yes, bearded dragons can safely eat raw cabbage. However, it’s best to offer it chopped into small pieces and in moderation because goitrogens affect thyroid health.
2. What Veggies Can Beardies Not Eat?
Avoid veggies like spinach, cabbage, and beet greens. These can cause health issues in bearded dragons, such as poor calcium absorption or thyroid problems.
3. What Foods Are Poisonous To Bearded Dragons?
Foods poisonous to bearded dragons include avocados, rhubarb, and sugary or processed foods. These can cause severe health problems, so avoid feeding them to your pet.
4. What greens can Beardies have daily?
- Collard Greens: High in calcium and nutrients.
- Mustard Greens: Rich in vitamins and minerals.
- Dandelion Greens: Packed with calcium and fiber.
5. How To Prepare Cabbage For Bearded Dragon?
Wash cabbage thoroughly, remove the hard stalk, and chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. Serve raw to your bearded dragon, ensuring it’s fresh and clean.
6. Is Cabbage A Good Source Of Calcium For Bearded Dragons?
Cabbage has some calcium but not enough to be a primary source. It’s better to offer high-calcium greens like collard greens or dandelion greens regularly.
7. How Do I Know If My Bearded Dragon Likes Cabbage?
Watch for signs like eagerly eating the cabbage or returning to it. If your bearded dragon enjoys and digests it well, it’s likely a favorite treat.
8. Do Beardies Eat Raw Or Cooked Squash?
Bearded dragons should eat raw squash. Cooked squash can lose nutrients and may be harder to digest. Offer raw squash chopped into small pieces for best results.
9. Is This A Good Mixture? It’s Frisée, Red Cabbage, Kale, And Radicchio. This And Some Mealworms. Also Found Out That My Beardie Is About 11 Months Old? He’s 16 1/2 Inches <3
Yes, this mixture is generally good for variety. Ensure it’s balanced and not too high in goitrogens. Mealworms are also a good protein source.
10. Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cabbage (Red & Green) Sweet Peppers Watercress What Fruits And Vegetables Should We Avoid?
Yes, they can eat red and green cabbage, sweet peppers, and watercress in moderation. Avoid spinach, avocado, and rhubarb, as they can be harmful.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, bearded dragons can safely enjoy cabbage and other healthy vegetables and fruits in moderation. Ensure a balanced diet by offering a variety of greens and avoid feeding cabbage too frequently to maintain your dragon’s health.
