Can Bearded Dragon Eat cabbage

Cabbage is a favorite for most farm animals such as goats but can bearded dragons eat cabbage. This article is part of a series where we provide pet diet guides so you can be informed about them. In this article, we focus on cabbage and whether it is a good or bad idea to feed your bearded dragon.

What is cabbage?

Cabbage is a part of the cruciferous vegetable family which also includes broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts. These vegetables are known for their healthy properties such as being rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and fat making them a perfect food for those looking to lose weight.

Types of cabbage:

Napa cabbage: Also called Chinese cabbage, this type of cabbage has a milder flavor than other types and is often used in salads.

Red cabbage: As the name suggests, this cabbage has a red or purple color and a slightly sweet taste. It is often used in coleslaw or as a garnish.

Savoy cabbage: This cabbage has crinkly leaves and a lighter, sweeter taste than other types of cabbage. It is often used in salads or soups.

Nutrients in cabbage:

Cabbage is a good source of the following nutrients:

Vitamin C – This vitamin is important for a healthy immune system and can also help to reduce inflammation.

Vitamin K – This vitamin is important for blood clotting and bone health.

Folate – This nutrient is important for pregnant women as it can help to prevent birth defects.

Potassium – This mineral is important for heart health and blood pressure control.

Dietary fiber – This nutrient is important for digestion and gut health.

Health benefits of cabbage to Bearded Dragon

There are many potential health benefits associated with eating cabbage such as:

Reduced inflammation – The nutrients in cabbage can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body, which can have a positive impact on conditions such as arthritis and other forms of chronic pain.

Weight loss – Cabbage is low in calories and fat, making it a great choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Improved heart health – The potassium, fiber, and other nutrients found in cabbage can help to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health overall.

Boosted immune system – Cabbage is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help to support a healthy immune system and reduce the risk of infection.

However, there are also potential drawbacks or downsides associated with eating cabbage, including:

Digestive issues – Cabbage is a high-fiber food that can cause gas and bloating in some people. It’s important to start with small amounts and increase gradually to avoid digestive issues.

Thyroid problems – Cabbage, broccoli, and other cruciferous vegetables contain compounds that can interfere with thyroid function. If you have a thyroid condition, it’s important to speak with your doctor before adding cabbage to your diet.

So, can bearded dragons eat cabbage?

Yes, bearded dragons can eat cabbage. This leafy green vegetable is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. However, it’s important to start with small amounts and increase gradually to avoid digestive issues. If your beardie has a thyroid condition, you should speak to your vet before feeding them cabbage regularly. Overall, cabbage can be a healthy addition to your bearded dragon’s diet, as long as it is consumed in moderation and with care.

How often?

You can feed your bearded dragon cabbage every other week, or as a weekly treat in small amounts.

The amount of goitrogenic compounds found in cabbage can be reduced by steaming, boiling, microwaving, or fermenting before feeding.

How they can eat cabbage

Some good ways to serve cabbage include chopping it into bite-sized pieces and placing it in your bearded dragon’s enclosure for them to eat at their leisure, or cooking it lightly and mixing it into their regular food. Just be sure to adjust the amount you provide depending on your beardie’s size, as too much cabbage can cause digestive issues.

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Napa, Red or Savoy cabbage?

Yes, Bearded Dragons can eat all types of cabbage including Napa, Red and Savoy. Each type of cabbage has slightly different nutrient profiles, but all are generally healthy for bearded dragons. Just be sure to start with small amounts and increase gradually to avoid digestive issues.

If your beardie has a thyroid condition, you should speak to your vet before feeding them cabbage regularly. Overall, topping cabbage in your bearded dragon’s diet such as Dubai roaches, can be a healthy way to give them a boost of nutrition.

What other vegetables can bearded dragons eat?

Bearded dragons are omnivorous reptiles, which means that they typically eat both plants and animals. In the wild, their diet consists mostly of insects, but they will also eat some fruits and vegetables.

When choosing food for your bearded dragon, it is important to opt for a wide variety of fruits and vegetables that are fresh, varied, and low in sugar. Some good options include kale, spinach, carrots, sweet potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, peas, apples, bananas, and berries. Always be sure to wash any fruits or vegetables thoroughly before feeding them to your bearded dragon to remove any harmful pesticides or contaminants.