Bearded dragons are a common choice for people looking for a pet reptile because of their interesting appearance and calm demeanor. Before choosing to bring a bearded dragon into your home, it’s important to think about the cost of caring for one. In this article, we’ll look at what it takes to care for a bearded dragon, and we’ll detail the monthly costs you can expect in 2023.
How Much Does a Bearded Dragon Cost? Bearded Dragon Monthly Expense in 2023
Bearded dragon ownership requires an upfront investment and ongoing maintenance. Let’s break it down piece by piece so you know exactly how much money will be needed.
Initial Setup Costs
When you first welcome a bearded dragon into your home, you’ll need to spend money on a suitable cage and supplies. Common initial setup expenses are as follows:
- Bearded dragon enclosures range in price from about $100 to $300, depending on size and quality. It is essential to give your pet enough space to run and climb.
- Bearded dragons require special lighting and heating setups in order to thrive in captivity. UVB bulbs, heat lamps, and thermostats can cost anywhere from $50 to $100.
- The substrate is the material used for the floor of the enclosure. There are a variety of materials to choose from, including tiling, paper towels, and reptile rugs. The substrate can cost anywhere from $20 to $50.
- Add decorations and skins to the enclosure to make it more interesting and attractive for your bearded dragon. You can get rocks, branches, and caves for around $20 to $50.
- Eating and drinking utensils are a must, so be sure to stock up. The average price for such items is between $10 and $20.
- Depending on the size and quality of the material you choose, the initial setup fee for a bearded dragon can range from $200 to $500.
Monthly Expenses
After the initial setup, keeping a bearded dragon will cost you money every month. For a clearer picture, let’s break down these expenses:
- Bearded dragons have special nutritional requirements and require a diet rich in live insects, greens, and other vegetables. Depending on the size of your dragon and access to live feeders, the monthly cost of food can range from $20 to $50.
- Your bearded dragon may benefit from dietary supplements such as calcium and multivitamins to ensure optimal health. These supplements often run between $10 and $20 monthly.
- The enclosure’s lighting and heating systems cannot function without access to electrical power. The cost can average from $5 to $10 monthly, depending on factors such as where you live and how much you pay for electricity.
- Animal Health: Maintaining the health of your bearded dragon will require regular visits to a veterinarian who specializes in treating reptiles. Depending on where you live and the types of services you use, this outlay may be necessary every other year at a cost of $50 to $100.
- Eventually, you will need to replace the substrate in your bearded dragon’s habitat. Depending on how often you clean, you can expect to pay between $10 and $20 per month for new substrate.
FAQs
How Long Do Bearded Dragons Live?
With the right care, bearded dragons can live up to 20 years or more, although on average they only live 10 to 15 years.
What is specific temperature range limit in Bearded dragons habitat?
During the day, the temperature on the hot side should reach 95 to 105 °F (35 to 40 °C), while the cool side should not drop below 24 °C (75 °F). At night the minimum temperature can drop to mid 60s or 18-24 degree Celsius.
Can Bearded Dragons Eat Fruit?
Bearded dragons can eat some fruit, but they should focus on eating vegetables and leafy greens.
Are UVB lights necessary for bearded dragons?
Bearded dragons require UVB light for healthy calcium metabolism and general health.
Can Multiple Bearded Dragons Share a Home?
Because of the possessiveness and aggressive tendencies of adult bearded dragons, it is unwise to keep more than one in the same household.
Could a bearded dragon be a suitable first pet?
Bearded dragons are often calm and easy to care for if you have the right knowledge and equipment, so they can make good pets for beginners.
Conclusion
Bearded dragon ownership has its advantages, but it’s important to plan for costs ahead of time. From the initial investment to ongoing monthly bills, it’s important to plan financially for your pet’s needs. If you’re financially ready, you can get the most out of caring for your bearded dragon, and that starts with knowing what it takes to keep one.
Keep in mind that the costs listed below are only estimates that may change based on your specific needs, the market, and other variables. If you’re looking for accurate advice on caring for your bearded dragon,its always good to consult veterinarian.