Play sand is a popular choice for bearded dragon owners because it’s cheap, easy to clean, and doesn’t require any special equipment. However, playing sand has its downsides as well.
Some reptiles aren’t meant to live in sand and play sand is just one example. In fact, most reptiles prefer soil over sand. Sand is abrasive and can cause skin irritation, especially around the mouth and nose.
If you’re wondering whether play sand is safe for bearded dragons, read on to learn why it might not be the best option.
Can I Use Play Sand for My Bearded Dragon?
Play sand is great for bearded dragons. You should only use sand that doesn’t contain any high levels of calcium. Calcium sand can be dangerous for bearded dragons. Instead, mix regular sand with a small amount of non-calcium-containing clay.
Bearded dragons enjoy digging, so sand is an excellent material for their habitat. They also like to climb on rocks and wood, so adding some of those materials to your bearded dragon’s habitat will give him lots of variety.
Bearded dragons are quite tolerant of play sand, as long as it isn’t too wet or too dirty. Letting it dry out before putting it into its enclosure will prevent problems.
They also like to have some climbing structures, so adding some safe wooden pieces to their enclosure will keep them busy.
Is Play Sand Safe For Bearded Dragons?
Play sand is great for bearded dragons because it doesn’t hold moisture or heat well. However, it does tend to dry out quickly, especially if you live in a hot climate. You should keep your reptile enclosure clean and free of debris.
Also, you should avoid using any kind of wood chips or mulch inside the enclosure. These materials can attract insects and rodents, which can cause problems for your reptile.
If you decide to use play sand, make sure to buy only high-quality play sand. Look for brands that say they’re made from recycled materials. Also, make sure to wash it thoroughly before using it.
What kind of sand is safe for my dragon?
There are lots of types of sand available for reptiles. Some are made specifically for reptiles, while others are meant for humans or pets. You should only buy sand that is safe for your bearded dragon.
Vita-Sand is a great example of sand that is safe for bearded dragons. It’s made from calcium, which helps keep your bearded dragon healthy. And since it’s made from natural ingredients, it won’t harm your lizard.
Make sure that the sand you purchase is clean and free of any foreign debris. Also, make sure that it doesn’t smell bad. If it does, throw it away immediately.
Is Sand Bad For Bearded Dragons?
Sand isn’t harmful to bearded dragons, but they can get sick from eating too much sand. That’s because sand is high in calcium, which is essential for growing and keeping your bearded dragon’s bones strong. But if your bearded dragon eats lots of sand, he may become ill or even die.
Is Sand Bad For Juvenile Bearded Dragons?
Baby bearded dragons are notorious for being messy eaters. They tend to eat whatever is available to them, including dirt, rocks, grass, leaves, sticks, paper, cardboard, etc. Sometimes, they’ll even eat sand.
However, there isn’t anything wrong with giving your baby bearded dragon sand to play with. As long as he/she eats plenty of calcium every day, you shouldn’t have any problems with him/her getting impacted by eating sand accidentally!
Is Calcium Sand Bad For Bearded Dragons?
Calcium sand isn’t bad for bearded dragons. However, if your lizard consumes too much of it, he may become impacted. That’s why it’s recommended to not use calcium sand at all, but rather to use regular sand and offer him a bowl with sepia. Sepia is a brownish color that helps provide a sufficient calcium intake.
Why Sand Can Be Ok For Your Bearded Dragon
Sand is good for bearded dragon owners because it helps their pets dig. Digging helps keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy. And if you’ve ever seen a bearded dragon digging, you know how amazing it looks!
Bearded dragons are naturally curious animals. They will explore their environment and find interesting things to play with. But sometimes they may accidentally ingest some sand. While this isn’t harmful, it does mean that your bearded dragon needs to consume enough calcium to prevent any problems.
What other sand is suitable for bearded dragons?
For a healthy environment for your bearded dragon, you should only use natural materials. There are several different types of sand you could use in your tank. But if you’re looking for the best kind of sand for your bearded dragon, then you should definitely consider using calcium-based sand, such as crushed coral or seashell.
Another option is to use Repti-Sand. It’s made specifically for reptiles, including bearded dragons. And there are also plenty of other options available, such as play sand. However, it’s important that you make sure that it doesn’t contain any additives or chemicals. Always check the label to make sure it’s safe for your pet.
FAQs
Is It True That Bearded Dragons Need A Bed?
Bearded dragons are lizards that require a place to rest that is soft and warm, so they should be kept in a large, comfy bed with a heating pad on it to keep them cozy at night.
What should I do if I think my bearded dragon has ingested some sand that may be harmful?
If you think your beardie has eaten some sand that could harm him, call your vet right away. He’ll be able to assess the problem and give your pet the proper treatment.
Is there anything else I need to know about using sand in a bearded dragon tank?
Yes! It‘s important to regularly keep your bearded dragon tank free of dirt and debris so that it doesn’t become contaminated by harmful bacteria. Make sure to always wash your tank using a gentle, reptile-safe cleaner.
Conclusion
In conclusion, play sand is a natural material that’s perfect for reptiles like bearded dragons. However, it’s important to keep in mind that play sand is porous, which means that it absorbs water from the air. This means that it’s going to dry out quickly, especially during hot weather. So if you want to use play sand for your bearded dragon, make sure you store it somewhere cool and humid.
As far as safety goes, play sand is perfectly fine for bearded dragons. They love to dig around in it, and it doesn’t pose any real danger to their health. In fact, it’s actually quite beneficial for them because it helps them clean themselves. But if you notice that your bearded dragon has developed a rash or is acting strangely, it’s probably time to call your vet.
