For pet reptiles, calcium is an essential nutrient for a healthy diet and life.Without enough of this mineral, your beloved reptile can become weakened, resulting in Vitamin D deficiencies, obesity, metabolic issues, stunted growth, poor shell development, and other health concerns.

Fortunately, calcium supplements can help provide the necessary intake needed for optimum wellbeing. In this guide, we'll discuss the importance of calcium for your reptile's health as well as the best type of supplement to give your pet.  

Why Calcium?

Calcium is an essential mineral for pet reptiles, playing a role in bone growth, nerve functioning, hormone synthesis, and egg production. While snakes may not require calcium supplements, their prey providing them with the necessary nutrients to obtain their needed calcium, some breeders opt to dust the food of female snakes during breeding season in order to increase the chances of viable eggs being produced. It's important to note that every reptile species has its own needs and preferences when it comes to supplementation, so always consult your veterinarian or experienced breeder before administering any supplements.  

What Reptiles Need Calcium Supplements?

All pet reptiles often require more calcium than they can get in their regular diet, making it essential to supplement their intake. Calcium helps reptiles stay healthy by keeping their bones and other metabolic processes working correctly. While carnivorous diets with mammalian prey usually provide enough calcium, reptiles that are insectivorous, herbivorous or omnivorous need external supplements to get the amount of calcium they need.

The Importance of Calcium for Pet Reptiles.

Calcium is a critically important mineral for your pet reptile's health. Not only does it assist in the development of strong bones, teeth, and shell, but it also allows for proper movement, muscle growth and circulation, nerve function, digestion and reproduction. Additionally, calcium helps balance other minerals in the body and regulates healthy hormone levels. Without sufficient amounts of calcium in its diet, your pet reptile may suffer from stunted growth or poor bone density that can lead to mobility issues. 

How Do I Give My Pet Reptile a Calcium Supplement?

Calcium supplementation can come in the form of a powdered supplement that can be sprinkled on food items as part of their regular diet, such fruits and vegetables. If your reptile begins to avoid certain areas with powder-coated foods, try spreading it more evenly. Turtles need calcium as a supplement to provide a hard shell.  Another way you can give your turtle a calcium supplement is by adding Calgrit to their water.

Types Of Calcium Supplements For Reptiles.

When choosing the right type of food supplement for your pet reptile, it’s

important to understand the application and dosage.  

While powdered formulas are more commonly used, ensure you follow the correct dosage for your pet reptile. 

Considerations for Choosing the Right Calcium Supplement for Your Pet Reptile.

When selecting the perfect calcium supplement for your pet reptile, it’s important to understand which type of supplement is best suited to their individual needs as well as their level of activity. For instance, some geckos may require higher levels of calcium if they are expected to engage in frequent activity. As always, be sure to consult your vet before giving any supplementation. Additionally, look for a formula that contains crucial vitamins and minerals such as zinc and phosphorus to ensure optimal nutrition. Lastly, make sure you choose a product that is specifically designed for reptiles or small pets with clear dosing instructions.

Possible Dangers Of Overdosing Your Pet With Calcium Supplements.

While calcium is extremely important for the overall health of your pet reptile, too much of it can be dangerous. Consuming too much calcium can lead to a mineral imbalance within the body which may result in a weakened immune system, digestive issues, and tissue lesions.It is incredibly important for pet reptile owners to supplement their pets' diets with calcium, as reptiles can suffer from hypercalcemia if they get too much of this nutrient. Unchecked, this serious condition could cause renal failure which can be fatal. In severe cases, an overdose of calcium can even cause death in some reptiles.

Therefore, the key to avoiding any potential danger is to only give your pet reptile supplements when necessary and always follow the dosing instructions given by your vet or the supplement manufacturer.

What does calcium deficiency look like in reptiles?

One of the most important steps to ensuring that your pet reptile gets the right amount of calcium is to monitor their health. Make sure to pay attention to any changes in your pet's habits and physical appearance, as this could be an indication that they're not getting the minerals they need. It can also be beneficial to regularly test their blood for signs of mineral deficiencies or excesses, as this will provide an accurate measurement of your reptile's mineral levels. Finally, regular check-ups with a vet are essential since they can look for signs of nutritional deficiencies or dangerous calcium buildup.

Pet reptiles have an increased risk of developing calcium deficiency, which can lead to lethargy, refusal of food and difficulty moving. If your reptile is displaying any of these symptoms it may be worth having follow up blood tests or x-rays with a veterinarian to confirm levels.  

Why is lighting important for the absorption of calcium?

Pet reptiles kept indoors may require calcium supplements due to the absence of natural sunlight. Vitamin D, known as the “sunshine vitamin”, is necessary for calcium absorption in these reptiles. To replicate the UV light source of natural sunlight, a UV lamp with wavelengths in the "B" spectrum (260-320 nanometers) should be used to supply Vitamin D.

The light exposure helps convert dietary calcium into usable form within the pet reptile's body, highlighting the importance of calcium supplements for pet reptiles held indoors.

View our range of reptile heaters and lights here.

 

Best Calcium Supplements to Buy for Reptiles 

The best calcium products for reptiles include:

• Vetafarm Multical Dust: Vetafarm's Multical Dust is a calcium enriched supplement with vitamins and minerals that are essential to the health of your pet reptile. Easy to administer, sprinkle over reptiles food.

• Get Your Pet Right Calgrit for Murray Long and Short Neck Turtles.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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