As a pet owner, you want to give your reptile the best possible care, including a healthy and balanced diet. However, there are many myths and misconceptions circulating online, and it can be challenging to separate fact from fiction. One of the most common myths is that high protein insects, such as dubia, can cause gout in pet reptiles. But is there any truth to this claim?
First, let's look at the facts. Gout in pet reptiles is primarily caused by renal dysfunction and severe dehydration due to improper husbandry. Overfeeding can also contribute to renal dysfunction, as it puts extra strain on the kidneys. However, there is no evidence to suggest that insects, like dubia, cause gout in reptiles.
In fact, dubia have a protein content of around 20%, which is a bit higher but very much the same as other common feeder insects. It's also worth noting that in studies, cockroach protein caused test animals to grow faster than other insect proteins. These numbers suggest that dubia and other feeder insects are not inherently problematic for reptiles when fed in moderation.
So, why does this myth persist? One reason may be that some pet owners fail to provide proper care for their reptiles, leading to renal dysfunction and dehydration. They may then attribute the resulting health problems to the feeder insects instead of taking responsibility for their own mistakes.
Another reason is that outdated nutritional analyses have contributed to a misunderstanding of the protein content of certain feeder insects. Some earlier analyses showed dubia having protein contents over 30%, but those dubia were malnourished, and the analysis was skewed because the insects were severely dehydrated.
The bottom line is that it's essential to seek out reliable sources of information and consult with experts in the field when it comes to the care and feeding of exotic pets. Don't fall for the myth that high protein insects cause gout in pet reptiles. Instead, focus on providing your reptile with a balanced and varied diet, and make sure to maintain proper husbandry to prevent renal dysfunction and dehydration.
Remember, when it comes to information on the internet, not everything is accurate, and even if something is perpetuated by the masses, it doesn't necessarily mean it's true. Stick with the facts and consult with reputable sources like breeders and not strangers on the internet to ensure the best possible care for your pet reptile.