Are you a proud owner of a bearded dragon? If yes, then you must be wondering about its drinking habits. After all, hydration is crucial for the health and well-being of your pet.
Even if you don’t often see your bearded dragon drinking water, it’s crucial to have it available in the tank at all times.
But how often, how much, and why do they drink? What kind of water – or other beverages – can they enjoy?
Let’s dive in and explore the drinking habits of bearded dragons!
How Bearded Dragons Hydrate
Bearded dragons hydrate in two ways: through their food sources and water intake.
In the wild, they obtain most of their water from the food they eat, which includes insects, fruits, and vegetables. These foods have high moisture content, which helps to keep bearded dragons hydrated.
However, captive bearded dragons may not have access to the same variety of foods as wild ones, so it’s essential to supplement their diet with fresh vegetables and fruits to ensure they receive enough moisture.
Additionally, providing water in a shallow dish is essential to ensure that your bearded dragon is hydrated properly. Bearded dragons have a low thirst drive, which means they may not drink water as frequently as other animals.
Just like with temperature, bearded dragons self-regulate, which means they will drink water when they need it.
Therefore, it’s crucial to have water readily available to them at all times. Bearded dragons may also soak in their water dish to help regulate their body temperature, which can also contribute to their hydration.
Do Bearded Dragons Need Water?
Yes, bearded dragons need water to stay hydrated and healthy. Although they can obtain most of their moisture from their food, it’s not enough to meet their daily requirements. As a responsible pet owner, you should ensure that your bearded dragon has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Ideal Water Supply Setup
Bearded dragons should have their water in a shallow dish that’s easy for them to access. The dish should be wide enough for them to climb into and shallow enough that they don’t drown. You can use a ceramic, glass, or plastic dish, and make sure to clean it regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
Also, make sure to replace the water at least every other day to keep it fresh and prevent bacteria build-up.
Bearded Dragon Drinking Habits
Bearded dragons should have access to water at all times, but they may not drink water every day. The amount of water they drink varies depending on their size, age, and diet.
Generally, baby bearded dragons need more water than adults, and they should be offered water twice a day. Adults can drink water once a day or less, but make sure to monitor their water intake and refill the dish as needed. Even if there is still water in the dish, make sure to replace it with fresh water regularly!
Common and Uncommon Questions
Some of these questions may seem odd, but as we’ve been told in school – there are no stupid questions! It’s important to understand your pet reptile, to know what a bearded dragon can drink, and what you really shouldn’t give them. Luckily, unlike with food, the answer is quite simple: Water, only water, and nothing but water.
Can My Bearded Dragon Drink Tap Water?
Yes, bearded dragons can drink tap water, but it’s important to make sure that the water is clean and free from any contaminants. You can use a water conditioner to remove any harmful chemicals or metals from tap water.
Alternatively, you can use bottled water or install a water filtration system to ensure that your bearded dragon gets clean water.
Can Bearded Dragons Drink Distilled Water?
Yes, bearded dragons can drink distilled water, but it’s not recommended as their primary source of water. Distilled water lacks minerals and nutrients that are essential for the health of bearded dragons.
If you must use distilled water, make sure to supplement your bearded dragon’s diet with calcium and other necessary minerals. You should be doing this anyway, but it’s even more important with distilled water.
Can Bearded Dragons Drink Soda?
No, bearded dragons should not drink soda. Soda is high in sugar and artificial flavors that can be harmful to their health. In addition, carbonated beverages can cause bloating, stomach pain, and even death in severe cases.
Can a Bearded Dragon Drink Tea?
No, bearded dragons should not drink tea. Tea contains caffeine and other compounds that can be toxic to bearded dragons. Furthermore, tea doesn’t provide any nutritional value to bearded dragons, and it can upset their digestive system.
Can Bearded Dragons Drink Gatorade?
No, bearded dragons should not drink Gatorade. Gatorade is a sports drink that’s high in sugar and electrolytes, which can be harmful to bearded dragons. In addition, it doesn’t provide any nutritional value to bearded dragons, and it can cause diarrhea or other digestive issues.
Can Bearded Dragons Drink Milk?
No, bearded dragons should not drink milk. Milk is high in lactose, which can cause digestive issues in bearded dragons. In addition, it doesn’t provide any nutritional value to bearded dragons, and it can upset their stomach.
Can Bearded Dragons Drink Alcohol?
No, bearded dragons should not drink alcohol. Alcohol can be toxic to bearded dragons and can cause liver damage, neurological problems, and even death in severe cases.
Can Bearded Dragons Drink Orange Juice?
No, bearded dragons should not drink orange juice. Orange juice is high in sugar and acidic, which can cause digestive issues and metabolic problems in bearded dragons. In addition, it doesn’t provide any nutritional value to bearded dragons.
Summary
In conclusion, bearded dragons need access to fresh, clean water at all times to stay hydrated and healthy. Make sure to provide water in a shallow dish that’s easy for them to access, and clean it regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
Avoid giving your bearded dragon soda, tea, Gatorade, milk, alcohol, orange juice, or any other sugary or acidic beverages.
Instead, stick to clean water, and if you’re concerned about the quality of tap water, use a water conditioner or filtration system. With proper hydration, your bearded dragon will thrive and live a happy, healthy life.