Bearded dragons have become popular pets due to their calm and peaceful nature. They are not picky eaters and can consume nearly anything offered to them. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to ensure their health and well-being.
When a bearded dragon joins your home, it quickly becomes part of your family. Their health concerns become yours as well. Bearded dragons are sensitive creatures, so owners must be extra attentive to their needs.
One common issue bearded dragons face is bloating. Seeing your pet bloated is concerning, but there are many potential causes. New owners often worry about this, though bloating is relatively common among bearded dragons.
6 Reasons Why Bearded Dragon Bloated
It is usual for your bearded dragon to experience bloating. Here are some common reasons for bloating in bearded dragons.
1: Impaction
Impaction is a severe condition in bearded dragons, worse than constipation. It occurs when the stomach becomes blocked. If left untreated, impaction can lead to death.
Prompt and effective treatment is crucial. Symptoms include reduced movement, with the back legs often appearing paralyzed. In some cases, the front legs may also show signs of paralysis.
2: Egg Binding
Egg binding is standard in female bearded dragons, even those with infertile eggs. Gravid females show increased size, appetite, and behavioral changes. They may try to escape the vivarium in search of a place to lay their eggs.
You can feel the eggs gently in their abdomen without applying pressure. A healthy gravid dragon may become inactive, and its core will appear swollen due to egg binding.
3: Bathing
Bearded dragons enjoy bathing, which aids in hydration and makes shedding easier. They bloat to float, ensuring only their front legs are submerged when the water is too deep for bathing.
4: Protection
Bearded dragons sometimes use bloating as a defense mechanism. If your bearded dragon stays indoors most of the time and only goes outside occasionally, it may bloat to protect itself. This behavior occurs when the dragon enters unfamiliar surroundings, puffing up to appear larger and more intimidating.
5: Basking
Bearded dragons require UV rays from the sun to obtain essential minerals and vitamins for their health. You’ll often see your bearded dragon puffing up its belly to maximize the surface area for basking.
6: Have A Big Meal Without Pooping
Bearded dragons are heavy eaters and can consume a lot daily. However, they may experience bloating if they overeat without pooping.
Should I Worry If My Bearded Dragon is Bloated?
It’s typical for bearded dragons to bloat, and it’s usually not a cause for concern. Bloating can occur for various reasons, including gas buildup. However, there are certain situations where you should be worried.
If your bearded dragon is bloated and not moving, it could be impacted, which requires a vet’s attention. Similarly, it can be dangerous if your dragon doesn’t pass gas regularly. Health-related bloating can lead to pain and even death. Monitor your pet closely and seek veterinary care when necessary.
3 Ways to Help Your Bloated-Bearded Dragon
You can try some home remedies if your bearded dragon has been bloated for a few days. However, it’s best to consult a vet if the condition seems severe. Here are some effective treatments for impaction in bearded dragons:
1: Check the Temperature
Check your bearded dragon’s basking area temperature using a thermometer or temperature gun. Even a slight temperature change can impact your reptile’s digestive health.
2: Fill the Tub with Warm Water
Many bearded dragons prefer to defecate in water. Try placing your dragon in a warm bath. Fill the tub slightly more profoundly than usual, giving your reptile space to swim around comfortably. Allow about 20 to 30 minutes for your bearded dragon to relax and do its business.
3: Try Giving a Massage
While in the bath, try two massages to assist your bearded dragon with impaction. Start by gently stroking its side from head to tail. This can help move things along in the digestive area. Always be gentle, as the impaction may be pressing on internal organs.
Conclusion
Bearded dragon bloating can occur for various reasons. If you’re concerned about your bearded dragon’s bloating, consider the causes listed above. It’s essential to monitor your pet regularly. Bloating can sometimes happen as a protective response or due to injury. Understanding the difference is crucial. If your bearded dragon cannot move and its back legs are paralyzed, seek veterinary care immediately. Prompt and effective treatment is essential for your pet’s well-being.
FAQs
How many times should a baby bearded dragon poop?
Baby bearded dragons should poop daily, ideally one to three times a day. In contrast, adults typically poop once to seven times per week.
What are a few signs and symptoms of egg binding?
Female bearded dragons can experience egg binding, a serious condition. If your beardie is affected, you’ll notice a swollen abdomen and difficulty breathing. Other signs include restlessness, straining to lay eggs, digging a hole, and repeated attempts to lay eggs.
Signs to identify if a bearded dragon needs help?
Observing your bearded dragon’s behavior is essential. If your dragon isn’t moving after bloating, it can be dangerous. Additionally, if it isn’t eating or hasn’t pooped for weeks, you should seek help right away. Contact a vet and take your reptile in for proper care.