Can Bearded Dragons Eat Cantaloupe

Below is the nutritional details for cantaloupe. We created this nutrition label using information provided by the USDA and other reputable sources.

Cantaloupe Health Concerns

Overall, cantaloupe appears fairly healthy. It has a good pH value, is low in oxalates, and is rich in vitamins. However, it does have one health concern.

Cantaloupe has nearly twice as much phosphorus than calcium. This is a concern because phosphorus binds to and prevents calcium from being absorbed. This means cantaloupe will not provide any dietary calcium and the excess phosphorus will prevent calcium from other parts of the meal from being absorbed. You can offset this imbalance by serving cantaloupe with other foods that are rich in calcium like arugula or kale.

When prepared correctly and served in the correct portions, cantaloupe can be fed safely to bearded dragons. Keep in mind it does have a poor calcium to phosphorus ratio so you should only feed it to your bearded dragon no more than once or twice a week. Anytime you do feed your beardie cantaloupe you should provide additional calcium (10mg per 100g serving) to correct the mineral imbalance.

Cantaloupe Preparation

You should only feed your bearded dragon fresh ripe cantaloupes. Frozen or preserved cantaloupes sometimes have sugars and/or preservatives added which may alter the nutrition. Be sure to wash the outside of the cantaloupe before cutting. Oftentimes cantaloupes are sold unwashed so washing it before cutting will prevent any dirt, debris, or chemicals from coming in contact with the fruit's flesh.

Once the cantaloupe has been washed cut the fruit in half with a knife. Using a spoon, scoop and remove all the seeds from the cantaloupe's flesh. Bearded dragons can choke on the seeds so make sure they are all removed.

Cut the cantaloupe in thin slices or cubes no larger than the distance between your bearded dragon's eyes. The rind is not editable so do not serve any pieces with rind to your beardie.

Serve the cantaloupe with other fruits, vegetables, or insects that are rich in calcium.