Vitamin Supplementation

[Beardienatic]

Hey guys!

I am a bit confused in the area of calcium and multivitamin supplementation powders. I will be getting a sub-adult bearded dragon.

*How often should calcium be dusted over insects?
*How often should multivitamin powder be dusted over insects?
*Which brand/s are best?
*Should either of them include vitamin D3?
*Is there any specific vitamins that the calcium should/shouldn't have?
*Is there any specific vitamins that the multivitamin should/shouldn't have?
And a bit off topic, but
*My enclosure size will be 114 cm x 60 cm x 60 cm (~45 inch x 24 inch x 24 inch), so which ligth would be better? I want to get the ZooMed Reptisun, but would the T5 or T8 be better for my tank size?

Thanks in advance!

 

[CooperDragon]

Hi, the supplementation question does get a bit confusing. I would defer to the instructions on your supplementation first, as they are all formulated a bit differently. In general, I would dust bugs at every meal. The calcium is more important so use that more often, maybe 5 or 6 days per week then dust with vitamin powder the other day or two. As time goes on you won't feed bugs as often so maybe two feedings per week with calcium and one with vitamin or something along those lines. There are several good options available. I use Repashy supplements and like them.

In my opinion D3 supplement isn't really needed if you're using a high output UVB source (T5 or MVB). In a tank the size of yours, I'd definitely go with a T5. They have an optimal output at about 12-14'' above the basking site. I'd get one that runs about 1/2 - 2/3 the length of the enclosure. The 22/24'' fixture and bulb should work nicely for you.

 

[Beardienatic]

Thank you CooperDragon!