You probably won’t be a Dragon Keeper for very long without hearing how vital calcium is for bearded dragons health and wellbeing. New and longtime owners alike often wonder if they are providing enough calcium for their pets. What calcium-rich foods are good for your bearded dragon? Should you offer supplements—if so, powdered or liquid? Why does calcium matter so much in the first place? This guide gives you the basics so you can make sure your dragon is getting what he needs.
As bearded dragon owners, we all want to make sure our pets stay happy and healthy. One of the most important things we can do is provide proper calcium supplementation. Calcium is crucial for strong bones and preventing metabolic bone disease. But getting your bearded dragon to eat dusted insects or calcium-rich veggies can be a challenge. This is where liquid calcium supplements come in handy!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using liquid calcium for your bearded dragon.
Why Calcium is Essential for Bearded Dragons
Calcium plays a number of vital roles in a bearded dragon’s health:
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It helps build strong bones and prevents metabolic bone disease. Bearded dragons are prone to MBD without adequate calcium.
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It enables proper muscle contractions.
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It assists with egg production in female dragons.
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It supports nerve function.
Bearded dragons get calcium from UVB exposure, gut-loaded insects, and calcium supplements. But picky eaters or dragons who don’t get enough UVB may need an additional calcium boost that liquid supplements can provide.
Liquid Calcium vs Powdered Calcium
Both liquid and powdered calcium supplements have pros and cons:
Liquid calcium pros:
- Easier to administer, especially for picky eaters
- Can add directly to food or water
- Accurately dosed
Liquid calcium cons:
- Risk of overdosing if instructions aren’t followed
- Most require refrigeration after opening
Powdered calcium pros:
- Familiar dusting method
- Provides visual feedback on intake
Powdered calcium cons:
- Some dragons dislike the taste/texture
- Harder to ensure accurate dosage
Many owners find that combining liquid and powdered calcium covers all the bases and ensures adequate supplementation.
Choosing a Liquid Calcium Supplement
When selecting a liquid calcium supplement, look for:
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Calcium only, no phosphorus. The calcium-phosphorus ratio should be 2:1.
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Clear dosing instructions based on weight. Avoid D3 if using proper UVB lighting.
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Good reviews from bearded dragon owners.
Some popular options include:
Always consult your vet before starting any new supplement.
How to Use Liquid Calcium Safely
Using liquid calcium correctly is vital:
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Follow dosage instructions precisely based on your bearded dragon’s weight. Never eyeball it.
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For direct application, give the proper number of drops directly into your dragon’s mouth using the dropper.
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If adding to food or water, allow the recommended waiting time for absorption before feeding.
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Avoid oversupplementing. More calcium does not equal better bone health.
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Store in the refrigerator after opening to prevent spoilage.
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If also using powdered calcium, adjust dosage accordingly.
Combining Calcium Sources for Optimal Health
To fully meet your bearded dragon’s calcium needs, use a combination of sources:
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Liquid calcium: Follow product instructions for direct dosing 1-3 times per week.
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Powdered calcium dusting: Lightly dust insects at 2-3 feedings per week.
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Calcium-rich vegetables: Offer collard greens, mustard greens, dandelion greens, kale.
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Gut-loaded insects: Feed crickets and worms calcium-rich produce.
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Proper UVB lighting: Essential for Vitamin D3 production and calcium absorption.
Varying calcium sources ensures your bearded dragon gets calcium via different methods. A multidimensional approach is key for the best results!
Monitoring Your Bearded Dragon’s Health
It’s important to monitor your bearded dragon for signs of calcium deficiency or excess:
Calcium deficiency: Lethargy, tremors, swelling, bone deformities, seizures. Requires immediate vet attention.
Calcium excess: Lethargy, constipation, loss of appetite, abnormal bone growth. Adjust supplements.
Annual vet checkups, weighing monthly, and observation can identify issues early. Keeping a food and supplement log is also helpful. Don’t hesitate to ask your vet for advice on calcium dosage.
Liquid Calcium Tips and FAQs
Here are some quick tips on using liquid calcium successfully:
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Refrigerate after opening to maintain potency.
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Mix well before each use to redistribute settled calcium.
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Discard if it smells bad or you notice changes in appearance.
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Use purified or filtered water if adding it to drinking water.
FAQs:
Q: Can I give too much liquid calcium?
A: Yes, it’s possible to overdose, leading to hypercalcemia. Carefully follow dosage guidelines.
Q: How often should I give liquid calcium?
A: Depends on the product, your dragon’s age, and overall diet. 1-3 times weekly is typical.
Q: Does my adult beardie need liquid calcium?
A: Yes, though likely a lower dose than juveniles. Adults still require calcium supplementation.
Q: What about Vitamin D3?
A: If using proper UVB lighting, D3 likely isn’t necessary. But ask your vet.
The Takeaway on Liquid Calcium
When used properly alongside other calcium sources, liquid supplements can be a great way to support your bearded dragon’s bone health. The key is understanding correct usage and dosage. Combining liquid with powdered calcium, gut loading, UVB lighting, and calcium-rich foods can give your bearded dragon a nutritional leg up!
How to Protect Your Bearded Dragon from Calcium Deficiency
There are many ways to keep your bearded dragon safe from lack of calcium and all of its consequences:
- Healthy diet. Feed your dragon calcium-rich foods that are low in phosphorus and oxalates. Keep an eye on the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in fruits and veggies. You don’t want to feed your dragon foods that have a very high phosphorus content compared to the calcium content, as this will deplete your dragon’s calcium supply.
- Provide proper supplementation. Offer calcium and Vitamin D3 regularly. Whether you choose a liquid or powder variety, always make sure the supplements contain no phosphorus. Try our phosphorus-free Reptile Greens & Calcium Powder to keep your dragon healthy.
- Proper UVB lighting. Twelve hours of UVB exposure a day is ideal. Change the bulb in your dragon’s tank every six months or so, no later than every year.
- Know the signs of deficiency and illness. These include trouble walking, lethargy, and swollen limbs.
- Take your dragon out in the sun. Bearded dragons love walks! Not only will they enjoy the exercise, but their bodies will love the Vitamin D3.
- Gut load insects with calcium-rich foods. Leafy greens, papaya, and sweet potato are great options.
Liquid vs. Powder
Powdered calcium is fairly popular among Dragon Keepers. It’s easy to use, and all you really have to do is dust your dragon’s insects or other food with it.
Liquid supplements can be a little trickier because you typically have to offer them through a dropper, which your dragon may not enjoy. Of course, you can also mix it with water, but there is no guarantee your dragon will consume it all.
One case where you may want to select a liquid supplement over a powder would be if your dragon steadily refuses to eat or finish her food. In this case, a liquid may offer you more control over the calcium and Vitamin D3 intake. But in many cases, powder is quicker and easier.