Bathing is essential for all living creatures as it helps prevent disease, viruses, and bacteria. Bearded dragons, like other animals, also require regular baths. A bath helps keep them free from bacteria, parasites, and fungi.
Some owners may be hesitant about bathing their bearded dragons, but they should understand the health benefits it offers. Bathing once a week is a great way to help your bearded dragon relax. It also helps reduce stress and keeps their skin hydrated.
Why Do Bearded Dragons Need Baths?
Bearded dragons enjoy basking and thrive in low humidity, which can cause their skin to dry out. Regular baths help maintain skin moisture and assist during shedding. Since they typically avoid drinking from their water dish, a bath offers a chance for hydration. Warm baths are also beneficial for digestion, especially if your bearded dragon has issues. Overall, bathing helps keep them refreshed, energetic, and healthy. Let’s explore why bathing is essential for your bearded dragon.
1: Cleanliness and Hygiene
Cleanliness is essential for both humans and animals. Maintaining good hygiene will keep your bearded dragon healthy, preventing diseases and supporting its mental and physical well-being. Regular baths for your bearded dragon help protect it from fungi, parasites, and bacteria.
2: Healthy skin
Not bathing your bearded dragon can affect its skin. Regular baths help maintain healthy skin and prevent dryness. Dry skin can cause discomfort, making your bearded dragon itchy and irritated.
3: Hydration
Bathing is an effective way to keep your bearded dragon hydrated. They drink and absorb water through their skin; bathing provides essential hydration. Many bearded dragons drink water during their bath, making it an ideal method to prevent dehydration.
4: Playtime and Bonding
Many dragons enjoy bathing as it brings out their wild side. It’s an excellent chance for you and your bearded dragon to bond and deepen your connection. After a warm bath, they’ll feel energized and playful, eager to have fun with you.
5: Constipation and Shedding
Bearded dragons can easily experience constipation, which can be very uncomfortable. Similar to shedding, it can cause distress. A warm bath can help them relax and provide some relief. Shedding is a painful and irritating process for your bearded dragon. A warm bath can ease this by helping remove the skin quickly and without discomfort.
6: Better Digestive Health
Regular baths can significantly benefit your bearded dragon’s digestive system. The main advantage is that it boosts their water intake. This is especially important for bearded dragons who frequently experience impaction. Impaction occurs when they consume hard foods, potentially leading to life-threatening problems. Increased water intake helps move these complex substances through their system more efficiently.
5 Steps to Bath a Bearded Dragon
Bathing a bearded dragon is simple—just a quick soak followed by a rinse. You can also gently brush it to ensure it’s clean. You only need a tub or basin with lukewarm water and some towels. Bathing usually takes 30-45 minutes, starting with filling the water. It’s beneficial to let your bearded dragon soak for a while. Bathing it twice a week is recommended.
Here are some steps to help you bathe your bearded dragon, especially if it’s your first time.
1: Fill a Tub with Warm Water
First, prepare the bathing area with all necessary materials. A plastic box is easy to clean and can be a good option. You may also prefer deeper basins to prevent your bearded dragon from escaping.
Fill the tub with warm water, ensuring it reaches only up to your bearded dragon’s knees or armpits. Keeping the water level low is vital since bearded dragons can quickly get water in their lungs. Ensure that your bearded dragon’s head remains above the water.
2: The Right Water Temperature
The water temperature for the bath should be between 85-95°F, similar to their basking spot. Use an accurate thermometer to measure. Ensure the temperature doesn’t exceed 100°F, as high temperatures can stress your lizard.
3: Let Them Get Comfortable in the Water
Once everything is ready, gently place your bearded dragon in the water. If this is its first bath, ensure it feels comfortable before submerging it. Allow your bearded dragon to settle in the water. Once it appears relaxed, let it move around freely. A 20-minute bath is ideal for your bearded dragon’s skin. Let it enjoy the experience.
4: Gently Brush and Clean Them
Never use soap to clean your bearded dragon. If they drink water while bathing, soap can harm them. You can brush them before or after soaking, depending on your preference. Ensure your bearded dragon is comfortable during the process.
Use a toothbrush to clean them, brushing gently toward their scales. Avoid brushing the eyes and cloaca area. Focus on their head, cheeks, and under the chin.
Do not forcefully remove loose skin during shedding. It will naturally come off over time.
5: Dry Them Off
Dry your bearded dragon immediately with a soft or paper towel after a warm and relaxing bath. Paper towels are ideal because they can be discarded after use, reducing the risk of bacterial growth. Ensure your bearded dragon is thoroughly dried before returning them to their tank.
Avoid air drying, as the temperature change could be too cold for your reptile. Once dry, place them under the basking spot to allow any remaining moisture to evaporate.
After bathing your bearded dragon, clean up by discarding the water and disinfecting the tub with vinegar or lemon.
Conclusion
Bathing your bearded dragon can be both simple and challenging. It is crucial for your pet’s health and well-being. Regular baths offer several benefits, including hydration and skin health. Bathing also aids in shedding, making it smoother for your bearded dragon.
Additionally, it helps prevent illness and reduces the risk of bacterial infections like salmonella, which can affect both your pet and you. Since bearded dragons drink water while bathing, avoid using soaps, which can be harmful. Regular baths are key to your pet’s overall health.
FAQs
How often should I bathe my bearded dragon?
Bathing your bearded dragon 1-2 times a week is ideal. It helps maintain your dragon’s health and provides an opportunity for bonding.
What If my Bearded Dragon Doesn’t Like Baths?
Not all bearded dragons enjoy baths, so assessing their reaction before making it a routine is essential. If you have a young bearded dragon, introduce baths gradually. Start with short, calm sessions to help them get used to the water. Over time, regular baths can help them become more comfortable.
Should You Bathe Your Bearded Dragon While Shedding?
Bathing your bearded dragon during shedding is essential. Increase the frequency of baths to 3-4 times a week during this time.