If you’re a bearded dragon owner, then you know that they can get sick just like any other pet. But what do you do if your three legged bearded dragon is sick? Do you take it to the vet? What kind of medicine do they need? How long will it take for them to recover?
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These ailments can arise due to multiple reasons, including environmental factors, improper care, genetic predispositions, or infectious agents. It is important for reptile enthusiasts and pet owners to be aware of these potential sicknesses to provide the best possible care for their three-legged bearded dragons.
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
One common health concern for three legged bearded dragons is metabolic bone disease (MBD). This condition typically results from a deficiency of essential nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D3, in their diet. MBD weakens the reptile’s bones, leading to deformities and fractures. The condition is characterized by swollen limbs, bowed legs, and a general lack of coordination. Ensuring a well-balanced diet, including proper supplementation, is crucial to preventing MBD and promoting strong bone health in these unique creatures.
Respiratory Infections
Another sickness that can affect three legged bearded dragons is respiratory infections. These infections often arise due to poor husbandry practices, such as inadequate temperature or humidity levels in their enclosure. Suboptimal environmental conditions can stress their immune system, making them more susceptible to bacterial or fungal infections. Symptoms of respiratory infections include wheezing, mucus discharge, open-mouth breathing, and reduced appetite. Timely veterinary care and maintaining optimal habitat conditions can help prevent and treat respiratory infections.
Parasitic Infestations
Parasitic infestations pose another threat to the health of three-legged bearded dragons. External parasites, such as mites or ticks, can cause itching, skin irritation, and visible bite marks. Internal parasites, such as worms or protozoa, can lead to weight loss, diarrhea, and a weakened immune system. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper hygiene practices, such as keeping the enclosure clean, minimizing contact with wild reptiles, and using appropriate anti-parasitic treatments, are vital to managing and preventing parasitic infestations.
Furthermore, three legged bearded dragons may be prone to injuries or wounds due to their physical disability. The missing limb can make them more vulnerable to accidents or falls, which can result in cuts, abrasions, or fractures. Prompt attention and appropriate first aid are crucial in such situations to prevent infection and promote healing. Creating a safe and well-cushioned environment, with smooth surfaces and strategically placed objects, can help minimize the risk of injuries for these remarkable reptiles.
It is important to note that three legged bearded dragons, like any other pets, can also suffer from various other sicknesses not specifically related to their physical condition. They may experience digestive issues, reproductive problems, or other common reptile ailments. Regular veterinary check-ups, attentive observation, and maintaining proper hygiene and nutrition are fundamental in ensuring their overall well-being.
What to do if your bearded dragon is lethargic
If your bearded dragon is lethargic, there are a few things you can do to help.
#1 – Take your bearded dragon to the vet
If you think your bearded dragon may be lethargic due to a health issue, the first thing you should do is take them to the vet. The vet will be able to determine if there is a medical reason for the lethargy and provide the necessary treatment.
#2 – Provide a warm basking area
Bearded dragons are ectothermic, meaning they rely on external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. If your bearded dragon is lethargic, it may be due to a lack of heat. Try providing a warm basking area for your bearded dragon to help them warm up. The basking area should be around 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit.
#3 – Keep the humidity level low
If the humidity level in your reptile’s enclosure is too high, it can lead to respiratory problems and make your bearded dragon lethargic. Keep the humidity level low by using a ReptiBreeze open air cage or another type of well-ventilated enclosure.
#4 – Offer fresh vegetables and fruits
Bearded dragons are omnivores and require a diet that consists of both plants and animals. If your bearded dragon is not getting enough nutrients from their food, they may become lethargic. Try offering fresh vegetables and fruits as part of their diet to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need.
#5 – Make sure they are getting enough exercise
Bearded dragons are active reptiles and need to exercise daily. If your bearded dragon is not getting enough exercise, they may become lethargic. Try offering them toys to play with or letting them roam around your house for a while each day.
By following these tips, you can help your bearded dragon regain their energy and live a happy and healthy life.
What to do if your bearded dragon isn’t eating or drinking
If your bearded dragon isn’t eating or drinking, there are a few things you can do to try and get them back on track.
#1 – Check their mouth
One of the first things you should do if your bearded dragon isn’t eating or drinking is to check their mouth. If they have any sores, cuts, or other irritation, it could be causing them pain and making it difficult to eat or drink. You can clean their mouth with a cotton swab dipped in warm water.
#2 – Try different food items
If your bearded dragon usually eats insects, try offering them some vegetables instead. Sometimes a change in diet can help jump start their appetite. Bearded dragons typically like leafy greens, such as collard greens, turnip greens, and kale. You can also offer them carrots, squash, and sweet potatoes.
#3 – Offer smaller meals more often
If your bearded dragon isn’t eating very much at each meal, try offering smaller meals more often throughout the day. This will help them get the nutrients they need without feeling overwhelmed.
#4 – Add some moisture
If your bearded dragon’s food is too dry, it can make it difficult for them to eat or drink. You can add some moisture by spraying their food with a water bottle or placing a damp cloth over their food.
#5 – Take them to the veterinarian straight away
If you’ve tried all of these things and your bearded dragon still isn’t eating or drinking, it’s important to take them to the veterinarian right away. They may be sick or have some other underlying medical condition that needs to be treated.
What to do if your bearded dragon has swollen eyes
If you notice that your bearded dragon’s eyes are swollen, it is important to take action right away. Swollen eyes can be a sign of an infection or other serious health problem.
#1 – Clean their eyes
If your bearded dragon’s eyes are only slightly swollen, you can try cleaning them with a warm, wet cloth. Gently wipe away any discharge and make sure not to get any water in their eyes. You should also avoid using any harsh chemicals, such as bleach, near their eyes.
#2 – Apply a warm compress
If your bearded dragon’s eyes are still swollen after you clean them, you can try applying a warm compress. Simply soak a clean cloth in warm water and apply it to their eyes for a few minutes. This can help to reduce the swelling.
#3 – Take them to the vet
If your bearded dragon’s eyes are severely swollen or if they seem to be in pain, it is important to take them to the vet right away. They may need antibiotics or other medication to treat an infection or other health problem.
#4 – Preventative care
To help prevent your bearded dragon’s eyes from swelling in the future, it is important to keep their habitat clean and free of any harmful chemicals. You should also make sure they are getting enough vitamins and minerals in their diet. If you have any concerns about your bearded dragon’s health, be sure to talk to your vet.
Conclusion – What Do I Do If My Three Legged Bearded Dragon Is Sick?
If your three legged bearded dragon is sick, the first thing you should do is take it to a veterinarian. Sick dragons need proper medical care in order to get better, and most veterinarians will be able to treat them for free or at a reduced cost.
If your dragon isn’t insured, you may want to consider getting insurance so that you can afford to provide it with the best possible care if it gets sick. Remember, prevention is always the best cure, so make sure your dragon has a healthy diet and plenty of fresh water. Thanks for Reading!
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