How Do I Care for a Sick Bearded Dragon?

Bearded dragons is the name given to a species of reptile that belong to the genus Pogona. They are very hardy lizards normally found in the dry regions in Australia and breed easily in captivity. Their gentle natures make them wonderful pets, and many families keep bearded dragons, or beardies, as pets. People who keep beardies need to be aware of their pet's habits and watch out for signs and symptoms that indicate an illness. Some of the things a pet owner can do to take care of a sick bearded dragon include taking the pet to a vet, including special worms in its diet, and letting it recover in a quiet room.

The first thing any beardie owner should be aware of is the pet's normal condition. Beardies may not display symptoms of an illness readily, and owners need to be alert to sudden changes in behavior, such as a lack of appetite, hiding more often than usual, and lethargy. Physical signs may include a discharge from the mouth or eyes, eyes having a sunken appearance, and changes in the appearance of its stool. A familiarity with the common illnesses that afflict beardies will help owners identify warning signs early on and catch any disease in its early stages.

Pet owners are advised to take the pet to a veterinarian as soon as any symptoms show up. A fresh sample of the sick bearded dragon's stool should be taken to the vet for analysis. Providing the vet with a comprehensive history of its health, environment, and diet will go a long way toward helping the vet understand the problem. Some illnesses may have genetic causes, while others could be caused by dietary and environmental factors. Sometimes, even practices like overfeeding can result in bearded dragons, especially the young ones, falling ill.

Besides following the vet's recommendations, some of the things a pet owner can do to take care of a sick bearded dragon include placing the terrarium or cage in a quiet room where the the animal won't be disturbed. Aside from basics, such as cleaning the cage regularly and feeding it the right quantities of food at the right times, pet owners can disinfect the water bowl, cage, and food bowl regularly. Washing hands before touching the dragon is also advisable. Some beardie owners also prefer to supplement the diet, especially if they have lost weight, with superworms and mealworms, which are rich in calories.

If the beardie has no appetite, then feeding it liquid foods with a syringe may be necessary. Owners may also sprinkle multivitamin powders on the sick bearded dragon's food to help improve immune functions and reduce vitamin deficiencies. Keeping the sick bearded dragon well hydrated is important, and some owners use a warm water bath to do this. The beardie can be soaked in water that is shoulder deep, leaving its head well above the water line. A few people prefer to mist their dragons instead of bathing them in water dishes. Regular water baths can help improve the condition of dehydrated or constipated beardies.

Signs of illness in bearded dragons can include lethargy, lack of appetite, irregular bowel movements, sunken eyes, and noticeable weight loss. Respiratory infections may present with wheezing or mucus around the nostrils, while metabolic bone disease can cause limb deformities and weakness. Always consult a veterinarian if you notice these symptoms.

Hydration is crucial for a sick bearded dragon. Offer water through a dropper or syringe without a needle, and gently drip it on their snout to encourage drinking. You can also provide a shallow water dish, although bearded dragons often do not drink standing water. Bathing your dragon in warm water can also help with hydration and stimulate bowel movements.

Offer easily digestible foods like soft vegetables and fruits, and avoid hard-to-digest items. For protein, offer small, soft insects like silkworms. If your dragon refuses to eat, consult a vet who may recommend a special diet or supplements. Critical care formulas specifically designed for reptiles can be used under veterinary guidance.

Ensure the terrarium has a proper temperature gradient, with a basking spot around 95-110°F and a cooler area around 80-90°F. Keep the habitat clean and stress-free, avoiding unnecessary handling. Soft substrate can provide comfort, and hiding spots can offer security. Monitor humidity levels to prevent respiratory issues, aiming for 30-40%.

Immediate veterinary care is necessary if you notice signs of severe illness, such as paralysis, labored breathing, complete loss of appetite, or unresponsiveness. For less urgent symptoms that persist for more than a few days, such as minor appetite loss or lethargy, schedule a vet visit to rule out underlying health issues.

Never administer medication to your bearded dragon without veterinary advice. Many human medications are toxic to reptiles, and incorrect dosages can be harmful. A vet can prescribe the appropriate treatment after diagnosing the illness, ensuring the safety and recovery of your pet.