Bearded dragons love eggs because they are full of protein. They also supply vitamins and minerals like Vitamin D.
Always cook and cut eggs before serving. Avoid frying, seasoning, adding milk, or cooking too fast.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Egg Shells?
Bearded dragons should not eat egg shells as part of their regular diet. Here are the reasons:
- Egg shells are high in phosphorus but very low in calcium. Bearded dragons require a calcium to phosphorus ratio of around 1.5:1 to 2:1, and egg shells upset this balance.
- The protein and fat content in egg shells is extremely low. Bearded dragons need a nutritious diet high in protein and fat, which egg shells do not provide.
- Bearded dragons can have difficulty cracking and digesting egg shells. The sharp shell fragments can cause impaction or intestinal damage.
- While egg shells do contain some calcium, bearded dragons actually require calcium supplements as part of their diet. Whole eggs are a better source of calcium and nutrients.
- Egg shells can potentially contain bacteria that make bearded dragons sick. Even from clean, cooked eggs, there are risks.
- Egg shells are not part of a bearded dragon’s natural diet and do not provide the variety of nutrients they need to thrive.
In summary, while an occasional egg shell fragment likely won’t harm a healthy bearded dragon, they are best avoided. They pose risks and provide negligible nutrition, especially compared to whole eggs. Instead of egg shells, focus your bearded dragon’s diet on leafy greens, vegetables and protein-rich live insects. Provide calcium supplements as directed.
Egg shells are high in calcium but contain germs and bacteria that can cause digestive issues in bearded dragons. Thus, before feeding your pet egg shells, boil and nearly pulverize them.
Vitamin D – Without vitamin D, bearded dragons cannot absorb calcium, so they must get enough from their food. Doing so prevents their bones from becoming soft.
Eggs are a good protein source for bearded dragons of any age. Their high phosphorus content means they should only be fed occasionally.
Nutritional Content of Egg Shells
Bearded dragons need protein and vitamins from eggs. Calcium supports their bones and teeth, magnesium balances muscle growth and bone health, vitamin A hydrates skin and boosts immunity, and vitamin B12 helps brain function and metabolism.
They can be scrambled, soft-boiled, or hard-boiled. Avoid adding milk, butter, oil, seasonings, or vegetables that may make your pet’s digestion difficult.
Adult bearded dragons should only receive a few eggs once or twice a week. Eggs can be given as treats if they are boiled or scrambled.
Health Benefits and Risks of Egg Shells
Bearded dragons love eggs for protein. They also give them vitamins and minerals.
However, bearded dragons should only eat eggs occasionally.
If you offer bearded dragon eggs, make sure they are cooked and cut into small pieces. If handled improperly, bearded dragons can choke on raw eggs.
Eggs are a good source of calcium and vitamin D.
Other Alternatives to Egg Shells
Your beardie can get protein from eggs. Eggs contain vitamins and minerals that promote healthy growth and development in your pet lizard, as well as immunity and muscle function.
They supply Vitamin D, which bearded dragons need to process calcium. It may prevent skeletal problems in your lizard.
Your pet should receive half an egg per week. Since feeder insects provide enough protein for juvenile and adult dragons, this amount is fine.
Powder supplements can be used instead of eggs. Before your lizard eats them, sprinkle these on live feeder insects and veggies.
Conclusion on Eating Egg Shells
Eggs are rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. They also contain antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
After eating the egg, the shell is usually thrown away. Snakes can not digest them because they are high in calcium.
They contain 5% proteins and 95% calcium carbonate crystals.
Adults get their daily calcium from half a shell. They help people with low calcium intake or osteoporosis.
Crush egg shells and add them to smoothies, soups, juices, and stews for optimal consumption. This will enhance the flavor of your food and provide extra calcium!