Feeding Eggplant to Bearded Dragons: What You Need to Know
Offering eggplant to bearded dragons is an issue that causes interest among the owners of the reptiles. In this case the responsibility of a dog owner is to feed his/her pet healthy foods that have been prepared in the right proportions. To them, it entails prepare a number of tasty and wholesome meals that addresses the diverse nutritional requirements of the population. This is a perfect time to look closer at whether it is possible to count eggplant as one of the foods that they can take, and what precautions needs to be taken.
Nutritional Value of Eggplant
From the vitamin and mineral content of eggplant, beardies can benefit from some of them. Some of the vitamins present in it includes vitamin C, vitamin K and various B group of vitamins that help in immunity booster, blood clotting and energy production. Potassium, manganese and copper are other minerals that are contained in eggplants and they are very essential for the proper working of the body.
However, as mentioned earlier, though the eggplant offer these nutrients it should be served in moderate portionages as one of the diet principles. Before feeding your bearded dragon always consult a reptile’s veterinarian for dieting your beard dragon to ensure that its nutritional needs are fully met.
can Bearded Dragons Eat Eggplant?
Eggplants can be considered as safe for bearded dragons, though there are certain things one should remember. One concern is that solanine a toxic compound is present with potatoes and can exert toxic effects in high concentrations. However, solanine content in eggplant is normally low and feeding it to the chickens should not pose any danger so long as it is in small portions.
Eggplant should be introduced slowly into the diets of infants and children and the parent or caregiver should look for any signs that the child may be allergic to the food. However, eggplant cannot serve as the sole food for your bearded dragon, and, besides, it should be accompanied with other vegetables, fruits and the right type of proteins.
Preparing Eggplant for Bearded Dragons
When preparing eggplant for your bearded dragon, follow these guidelines:When preparing eggplant for your bearded dragon, follow these guidelines:
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Select Fresh Eggplant: Select an eggplant that is properly grown with no bruises or signs of decay and more importantly ensure that you select an eggplant that is fully ripe.
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Wash Thoroughly: Wash the eggplant to get rid of as much dirt or any other particles on it as is possible.
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Peel and Seed: Take off the hard skin and also the seeds as they are dangerous to the consumption of the fruit.
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Cook Properly: This can be achieved by simmering or boiling of the eggplants or even basking them in the oven with steam until they become tender as mashed meal. This should be set aside to cool before being served.
Eggplant and Bearded Dragons – Is It Safe to Feed Them to Your Pet?
With regards to portioning, portion sizes mean a great deal for those preparing eggplant. It should be fed in small proportions that is a little of its head size and should be fed 3 to 5 times in a week. Remember, moderation is key. It means that eggplant, in spite of being a healthy vegetable, should be provided within a framework of the balanced diet including various vegetables and fruits as well as lean proteins.
However it is advised not to feed your eggplant every day, as they will bloat if watered daily. A good diet also reduces nutrient deficiencies and imbalance and will help a bearded dragon get all the nutrients it requires.
Potential symptoms of allergy or gastro intestinal problem
It is important to watch out for any reactions that one may have which may suggest an issue with eggplant or any other food. Signs to watch for include:Signs to watch for include:
Gastrointestinal Issues: Diarrhea or constipation or other difference in the frequency or form of droppings.
Loss of Appetite: Loss of appetite is another sign which most people failure to detect yet it’s one of the most basic symptoms.
Lethargy or Weakness: Feebleness or Fatigue : This last one is quite self-explanatory and encompasses any symptoms that can be described as unusual fatigue or weakness.
Respiratory Problems: Difficulty in breathing which may be accompanied by a whistling sound in the chest.
Skin Irritation or Swelling: This is in form of erythema, oedema or rash on the skin.
If there is any of these signs or any other signs that you find unusual do not hesitate to take your reptile to a reptile vet. They are capable of identifying and treating all your bearded dragon’s health issues.
Conclusion
In general, vegetables, including eggplants can be fed to the bearded dragon, but it is advised to be given in small proportions and not frequently. As much as is possible, eggplant should not be fed every day and owners should seek professional advice for their reptiles from a vet. It is also important to observe for any sign of any adverse reactions including gastrointestinal disorder as well as change of behavior with a view of making certain the bearded dragon is OK. The task is to feed your scaly friend properly and pay attention to him, so as to keep him healthy and happy.
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