do Reptiles Need Vitamin D and Calcium for Bone Health ?

Answer 1

Yes they do.

Answer 2

Yes. Most also require UVA/UVB light in order to process Vitamin D- something that powder alone will not accomplish, or will accomplish ineffectively. That is why a heat lamp alone isn't going to do the trick! A deficiency in these minerals will result in a condition called Metabolic Bone Disease, typified by lethargy and soft, deformed bones that may result in crippling, and over time the condition can be fatal.

However, too much Vitamin D or Calcium isn't good either; Limit the exposure to UVA/UVB light to no more than 10-12 hours a day and dust crickets/other food 2 times a week.

Answer 3

Yes. However, if your critter is provided with UV lighting or has natural direct sunlight in which to bask on a daily basis then (theoretically) you could forego the vitamin D supplementation. I give a calcium PLUS D supplement anyway. Better safe then sorry, I say.

Answer 4

Yes.

They usually create vitamin D from absorbing UV-B rays from sunlight (remeber- these rays do not pass through most glass and plastic!)

Besides calcium, they also need phosphorus, magensium, etc. in the right ratios.

They also need vitamin B13, but not really B12 so most human and mammal vitamin mixes don't fill all of their needs.

Answer 5

Absolutely yes.

Answer 6

yes and No, too much is bad and not enough is bad. It depends on there age and the type of reptile you have too.

Answer 7

yes and lights too.

Answer 8

yes..very much