One major expense bearded dragon owners must consider is food for their pets. Although these reptiles don’t tend to be picky eaters, a healthy diet includes plenty of fresh produce, greens, and supplements.
The cost of food for a bearded dragon per month varies based on their age and what foods they prefer. On average, your bearded dragon’s food will cost you about $40 – $100 per month.
This depends mostly on what type of live food you feed, and on the age and size of your bearded dragon.
Live Food
The amount of live food your bearded dragon consumes each month depends on several factors. First and foremost, the size of your pet and how often it eats. Adult bearded dragons typically feed on insects, small vertebrates, greens, and fruits. Common foods include dubia roaches, earthworms, crickets, and superworms.
Most feeder insects for bearded dragons are quite cheap, but you have to buy new ones at least every few weeks, as they will otherwise either outgrow your pet or simply die. This often makes feeder insects the most expensive part of owning a bearded dragon. Expect to spend $10-$30 per week here.
This depends, of course, on what insects you feed. Some, learn mealworms or dubia roaches, are quite cheap, while some worms, like silkworms, are quite expensive and difficult to keep alive.
However, you should never feed your bearded dragon wild insects as these may contain pesticides and parasites which could make your dragon ill or even cause death.
You can purchase live feeder insects in convenient containers from most pet stores and online retailers on a monthly basis. They come in various species, so there’s sure to be something your bearded dragon will enjoy eating!
Veggies & Greens
Depending on what veggies, greens, and fruit you already have in your home, you may not need to spend much at all on feeding vegetables to your beardie. However, buying fresh produce just for your bearded dragon can easily add $5-10 per week in expenses.
Fruits can also be offered as treats, but it’s best to cut them into smaller pieces so your dragon can easily consume them. Some types of fruits contain a high phosphorous-to-calcium ratio, so be mindful not to overfeed your dragon with them.
Supplements
Proper supplementation is essential for the health of a captive lizard. This includes multivitamins, calcium powder, and vitamin D3. Our phosphorus-free Reptile Greens & Calcium Powder is an ideal option to provide your dragon with all of the essential nutrients they require to thrive.
Supplementing a pet’s diet is an essential component of their care, especially when they are first brought home. Supplements should contain calcium, vitamin, and mineral to promote their well-being.
Due to their cost effectiveness, some supplements may require a careful budget. Small containers of supplements range in price from $8 to $10.
Substrate
The substrate is the material that lines the bottom of a bearded dragon’s enclosure. Choosing the right substrate is important because it can affect the health and well-being of your pet. There are several popular choices of substrates for bearded dragons, including:
- Reptile Carpet: Reptile carpet is a popular choice of substrate for bearded dragons because it is easy to clean and reuse. It is made of a durable material that is safe for bearded dragons to walk on. Reptile carpet costs around $10 to $15 and can last for up to six months with proper cleaning and maintenance.
- Ceramic Tiles: Ceramic tiles are another popular substrate choice for bearded dragons. They are durable, easy to clean, and can help regulate the temperature in the enclosure. Ceramic tiles cost around $5 to $10 per tile, depending on the size and type, and can last for several years.
- Paper Towels/Newspaper: Paper towels and newspapers are inexpensive and easy to replace, making them a popular choice for bearded dragon owners. However, they do not offer any natural texture or enrichment for your pet and can be messy if not replaced frequently. They cost around $5 to $10 per roll of paper towels and need to be replaced every few days.
- Sand/Calcium Sand: Sand and calcium sand are controversial substrate choices for bearded dragons because they can cause impaction if ingested. However, if you choose to use sand as a substrate, it is important to use a type that is specifically made for reptiles and to ensure that your pet is not eating it. Sand costs around $10 to $20 per bag and needs to be replaced every few months.
It is important to note that some substrates, such as sand and coconut coir, can be harmful if ingested by your bearded dragon. Additionally, some substrates may not be suitable for juvenile or sick bearded dragons. Before choosing a substrate, it is important to do your research and consult with a veterinarian or reptile expert.
In terms of cost, the monthly cost of substrates for a bearded dragon will depend on the type of substrate you choose and how often it needs to be replaced. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from $5 to $20 per month on substrates, depending on the type and size of your bearded dragon enclosure.