Can Bearded Dragons Eat Yams

Can Bearded Dragons Eat Yams?

Yes, Bearded dragons can eat yams, also known as sweet potatoes, but they should be fed in moderation.

Vitamin A and C are found in sweet potatoes, making them an excellent source of nutrition.

Bearded dragons have a tendency to bind calcium with oxalates in their bodies, which may cause metabolic bone disease.

Wash and peel the yams before cutting them into flakes or strips.

It is recommended that sweet potatoes be fed to your bearded dragon on an occasional basis, about once or twice a month, either on their own or mixed with leafy green vegetables.

Nutritional Benefits Of Yams For Bearded Dragons

Young Bearded Dragon
Credit: Tiffany Washko

Yams are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals that provide important nutrients for bearded dragons. Here are some nutritional benefits of yams for bearded dragons:

  • Vitamins: Yams are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and good eyesight.
  • Minerals: Yams are a good source of minerals such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are important for maintaining healthy bones and muscles.
  • Fiber: Yams are high in fiber, which can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation in bearded dragons.

It is important to note that yams should be prepared properly before feeding them to bearded dragons.

They should be cooked and mashed to make them easier to digest, and any skin or seeds should be removed.

While sweet potatoes are often confused with yams, they are not the same thing. Sweet potatoes have a different nutritional profile and should not be used as a substitute for yams.

Are There Any Risks Associated With Feeding Yams To Bearded Dragons?

Bearded Dragon and Blue Toungue Skink
Credit: tony.cairns

Yes, there are risks associated with feeding yams or sweet potatoes to bearded dragons.

While yams are a good source of nutrition for bearded dragons, it is important to properly prepare them before feeding them to your pet.

Sweet potatoes contain high levels of vitamin A, which can lead to hypervitaminosis A (excess vitamin A) if fed in large quantities.

Overfeeding your bearded dragon with foods high in vitamin A, such as sweet potatoes, can also lead to health problems.

Raw sweet potatoes should not be fed directly to bearded dragons as they contain toxins that could make them sick if consumed in large quantities.

Therefore, it is recommended to limit your bearded dragon to a few small bites of cooked sweet potatoes.

It is always best to consult with a veterinarian or a reptile nutritionist to ensure that your bearded dragon is receiving a balanced and healthy diet.

How Often Should Yams Be Offered To Bearded Dragons?

Bearded Dragon 5
Credit: Adrian Robinson

Bearded dragons can eat yams and sweet potatoes as part of their diet, but it is important to offer them in moderation. Here is a summary of the information from the search results:

  • Yams and sweet potatoes are safe for bearded dragons to eat.
  • Sweet potatoes can be given as a treat, once or twice a month.
  • It is recommended to limit the serving of sweet potatoes to a few times a month.
  • Sweet potatoes should only be given occasionally, like once or twice a week.
  • Bearded dragons should only eat sweet potatoes occasionally as a treat, once every week or two.

Based on the information above, it is best to offer yams or sweet potatoes to bearded dragons as a treat, rather than as a regular part of their diet.

Once every week or two should be sufficient. It is important to remember that a balanced and varied diet is crucial for the overall health of bearded dragons, so yams or sweet potatoes should not be the sole focus of their diet.

How To Feed Them Yams?

Bearded dragons can eat yams, but it is important to know how to properly prepare them for your pet. Here are some guidelines to follow when feeding yams to your bearded dragon:

  1. Choose the right yams: Make sure to choose fresh yams that are firm and free of any bruises or soft spots. Organic yams are preferred, as they are free of pesticides and other chemicals.
  2. Wash and peel the yams: Thoroughly wash the yams with water and peel them before feeding them to your bearded dragon. This will remove any dirt or bacteria that may be present on the skin.
  3. Cook the yams: Yams can be boiled in water or baked in the oven until they are soft. Once cooked, let them cool down before feeding them to your bearded dragon.
  4. Cut the yams into small pieces: Cut the yams into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy for your bearded dragon to eat.
  5. Feed in moderation: Yams should be fed to your bearded dragon in moderation. A good general rule of thumb is to feed one small peeled and cooked sweet potato per month.

It is important to note that yams should not be the only food in your bearded dragon’s diet. They should be fed a variety of fruits, vegetables, and insects to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need.

How To Store Yams Properly For Your Beardie?

To store yams properly for your bearded dragon, you should follow these steps:

  1. Store yams in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard. Do not store them in the refrigerator, as this can cause them to become too hard and difficult for your bearded dragon to eat.
  2. Before feeding yams to your bearded dragon, it is important to properly prepare them. Peel the yam and cut it into small, bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier for your bearded dragon to eat and digest.
  3. If you have leftover yams, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it is best to feed your bearded dragon fresh yams whenever possible.
  4. When feeding yams to your bearded dragon, it is important to monitor their behavior and appetite. If your bearded dragon shows signs of discomfort or refuses to eat the yams, stop feeding them and consult with a veterinarian.

By following these steps, you can store yams properly for your bearded dragon and ensure that they are getting the nutrition they need.


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