How to Force Feed a Bearded Dragon

A step by step guide on how to force feed a bearded dragon.

Checkout this video:

Introduction

Bearded dragons are a type of lizard that is native to Australia. They are popular pets because they are relatively easy to care for and they have a docile personality. One of the most important things you need to do for your bearded dragon is to make sure it is getting enough food. If your bearded dragon is not eating or-moving/’>eating enough, it can become malnourished and even die.

One way to make sure your bearded dragon is getting enough food is to force feed it. This may sound daunting, but it is actually not too difficult. This article will explain how to force feed a bearded dragon.

What You’ll Need

To force feed your bearded dragon, you’ll need the following supplies:

– tongs
– live insects (gut-loaded and dusted with calcium powder)
– a small dish or bowl
– a syringe (optional)

Follow these steps to force feed your bearded dragon:

1. Place the live insects in the small dish or bowl.
2. Use the tongs to pick up an insect and offer it to your bearded dragon. If your bearded dragon refuses to eat you may need to use a syringe to force feed them.
3. Insert the syringe into the corner of your bearded dragon’s mouth and slowly squeeze the insect into their mouth. You may need to help hold their jaw open while you do this.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 until your bearded dragon has eaten their fill.

Step One: Set Up

You will need:
-A food dish
-A water dish
-A sanctuary/hide
-Crickets
-Gut load (food for the crickets)
-Calcium powder
This step is critical because you will need to set up a place where your beardie feels comfortable and safe. Place the food and water dishes close to each other so your beardie can easily find them. The sanctuary/hide should be big enough for your beardie to fit inside and feel snug.

Step Two: Prepare the Food

The next step is to prepare the food. You will need to chop the vegetables into small pieces. The size of the pieces will depend on the age and size of your bearded dragon. Baby dragons will need smaller pieces than adult dragons.

You should also mix the vegetables with a calcium supplement powder. This powder can be found at most pet stores. The powder is important because it will help your dragon to develop strong bones and muscles.

Once the vegetables are chopped and mixed with the calcium powder, you are ready to move on to the next step.

Step Three: Feeding Time

Step Three: Feeding Time
Now that you have your supplies, it’s time to get started! When you are ready to feed your dragon, follow these steps:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Place the food on a clean plate or cutting board.
3. Cut the food into small pieces using a sharp knife. If you are feeding your dragon live food, be sure to cut off any legs or wings first.
4. Place the food in front of your dragon and allow it to eat at its own pace.
5. When your dragon is finished eating, remove any uneaten food from its cage.

Step Four: post-Feeding Care

Give your bearded dragon time to digest its meal. Do not immediately put your bearded dragon back in its habitat. Depending on the size of the meal, your bearded dragon may need up to an hour to fully digest its food. If you put your bearded dragon back in its habitat too soon, it may regurgitate its meal.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons are typically easy to care for and make great pets. However, there are times when they may need a little help getting the nutrition they need. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t panic! Force feeding your bearded dragon is not as difficult as it may seem. With a little patience and care, you can get your pet back on track in no time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding how to force feed a bearded dragon. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to contact us.

What is the best way to force feed a bearded dragon?
The best way to force feed a bearded dragon is by using a syringe or eyedropper. Fill the syringe or eyedropper with the food or water, and then place the tip at the back of the dragon’s mouth. Gently squeeze the syringe or eyedropper until the food or water is released into the mouth. Repeat this process until the desired amount has been consumed.

How often should I force feed my bearded dragon?
You should only need to force feed your bearded dragon if it is not eating on its own. If your dragon is not eating, you may need to feed it 2-3 times per day However, if your dragon is eating on its own, there is no need to force feed it.

What should I do if my bearded dragon won’t eat?
If your bearded dragon won’t eat, you may need to consult with a veterinarian. Some potential causes of not eating include illness, stress, and lack of appetite. A veterinarian will be able to help determine the cause and recommend a course of treatment.

Further Reading

If you’re interested in learning more about bearded dragons, we suggest the following resources:

-National Geographic Kids: Bearded Dragons by Meredith Phillips
-Reptiles Magazine: Bearded Dragons by Ron Tremper
-The Essential Guide to Bearded Dragons by Chris Mattison

Credits

This article was co-authored by Pippa Elliott, MRCVS. Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987, and worked as a veterinary surgeon for 7 years. Afterward, Dr. Elliott worked as a veterinarian at an animal clinic for over a decade.