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Amber

Hi I’ve had my bearded dragon about 2-3 weeks and I can’t get him to eat any veggies only superworms I haven’t tried any other insects but when he does eats it’s only 2-3 worms and won’t eat any of his fresh greens how do I get him to eat more I know while they’re juveniles they’re supposed to eat majority insects but he’ll only eat a couple superworms everyday

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Guapo
Others, Reptile
1 month, Unknown
Issue details
Main concern
Others
Duration
10 day(s)
Ongoing
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Dr. Brown
Dr.Tail Vet

It's quite common for young bearded dragons to show a preference for insects over vegetables, as their diet should primarily consist of insects at this stage. However, it's crucial to gradually introduce vegetables to ensure they receive a balanced diet as they grow.

To encourage your bearded dragon to eat more vegetables, you might want to try a few strategies. First, consider offering a variety of greens such as collard greens, mustard greens, and dandelion greens. Chop these into small, manageable pieces and mix them with the insects to make them more appealing. Timing can also play a role; try offering vegetables in the morning when your bearded dragon is most active and hungry, as this increases the likelihood of them trying the veggies.

Additionally, make sure the enclosure is at the right temperature, as bearded dragons need warmth to digest their food properly. A basking spot of around 95-110°F is ideal for juveniles. You can also mist the greens lightly with water to make them more enticing and provide extra hydration.

While superworms are a good source of protein, they can be high in fat. Consider offering other insects like crickets or dubia roaches, which might encourage more interest in food overall. Consistency is key, so keep offering vegetables daily, even if they are not eaten at first. Persistence is important.

If your bearded dragon continues to eat only a few insects and refuses vegetables, it's important to monitor its weight and energy levels. Should you notice any signs of lethargy or weight loss, consulting a reptile specialist might be necessary to ensure there are no underlying health issues.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.

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