Mint is a very common herb that is used to flavor many foods, but could it be dangerous for Bearded Dragons? No, mint is safe for your bearded dragon, however, it should be given as a treat rather than a staple of their diet. It is safe for them to eat and has some great benefits such as repelling insects.
However, just like humans, giving too much of a good thing can be bad and your bearded dragon could receive some negative side effects from eating too much of it, so limit their intake to no more than once a week. Check out the vegetable list for bearded dragons.
Is Mint Harmful To My Bearded Dragon?
First, ask yourself if the mint has been sprayed with pesticides or fertilizers. If so, don’t let your pet eat any of the leaves because these chemicals can be harmful. Also, check to make sure that none of the plant’s parts show signs of mold. If you answer yes to either question about pesticides or mold, then don’t feed this mint to your dragon friend under any circumstances!
Next, find out where this plant came from by asking yourself if your bearded dragon could have possibly come into contact with any pesticides or fertilizers that were applied to the plant before you brought it home. If so, then don’t give this mint to him until you know for sure it is safe.
Lastly, mint has high water content which could lead to diarrhea and ultimately dehydration.
Vegetables List
- Can Bearded Dragons Eat Zucchini
- Can Bearded Dragons Eat Mushrooms
- Can Bearded Dragons Eat Alfalfa Sprouts
How Much Mint is Safe For My Bearded Dragon?
Only give your dragon leaves from the mint plant.
If you are giving them fresh leaves, make sure to keep an eye on how much they eat because too many can cause their stool to be runny and this could lead to impaction which is very serious. Also, don’t let them eat more than one or two at a time as a treat.
If the leaves are dried, then limit your dragon to no more than 1 or 2 per day and only give them to him about once a week.
What Benefits Can My Bearded Dragon Get From Eating Mint?
Honestly, besides getting rid of any bad breath your bearded dragon might have, mint doesn’t have much nutritional value. Mint does have traces of Vitamin C but why bother with it when there are so many other beneficial foods for your beardie?
Where Can I Find Mint For My Bearded Dragon?
You can grow fresh mint for your dragon in a pot or planter that has great drainage. You could also go to the store and buy dried mint leaves, but make sure to check if they’ve been treated with pesticides or fertilizers. Also, don’t let your dragon eat any mint that’s been in your herb mix because it could contain other things that are dangerous for pets.
All in all, while mint is safe for your bearded dragon in limited quantities, it boils down to the fact that there are far better nutritious choices of food for your dragon.