I have heard about something called oxalic acid. What is it and how can it harm my bearded dragon?
Oxalic acid is present in certain dark greens, like spinach. It binds the calcium the greens offer and actually reduces the amount of total calcium available from the food source. An ideal Ca:P ratio of 2:1 is recommended. Improper amounts of calcium in the diet can lead to a variety of illnesses and side-effects. Poor bone growth, brittleness or extreme softness can result. Deformities of limbs and jaws are often apparent at this stage and can inhibit further feeding abilities. Rickets, metabolic bone disease (MBD), poor nervous system function and poor eggshell production are all related to diets weak in calcium, which is necessary to insure healthy skin, bones, muscles and blood. A varied diet is essential as are supplements like Repto-Cal, Rep-Cal, Nekton MSA and a variety of new supplements you’ll find on the shelves of your local pet store.
