Bearded Dragon Broken Nail: What is it and How to Recognize it

Bearded dragons are amazing pets, but as with any animal, they are prone to injuries and health issues. One of the most common problems, especially in captivity, is a broken or damaged nail. This is not surprising, considering the delicate nature of their nails and the fact that they spend a lot of time scratching, climbing, and digging.

A broken nail may seem like a small issue, but it can be very painful and uncomfortable for your pet. Not to mention, it can also increase the risk of infection and make it harder for your bearded dragon to move around normally. Here is what you need to know about bearded dragon broken nails, including how to recognize them, what causes them, and what you can do to treat and prevent them.

How to Recognize a Broken Nail

A broken nail can be very obvious, especially if it’s bleeding or if a part of the nail is missing. However, in some cases, it may not be easy to notice, especially if the nail is only partially damaged or if it’s a gradual problem. Here are some signs that your bearded dragon may have a broken nail:

• Limping or favoring a leg or paw
• Reluctance to walk or climb
• Crying out or hissing when touched
• Bleeding or redness around the nail area
• Visible crack or chip on the nail
• Abnormal nail growth or shape

Causes of Broken Nails

There are many things that can cause a bearded dragon’s nail to break, including:

• Trauma or injury
• Poor nutrition and diet
• Lack of exercise and activity
• Inadequate substrate or bedding (e.g. too hard or rough)
• Identifying and addressing the underlying cause is crucial to prevent further damage and promote healing.

What to do if Your Bearded Dragon has a Broken Nail

If you suspect that your bearded dragon has a broken nail, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage and ease their discomfort. Here are the steps you need to take:

• Examine the nail and surrounding area closely to assess the extent of the damage and look out for any signs of infection (e.g. swelling, discharge, redness).
• If the nail is bleeding, use a clean and soft cloth or paper towel to apply gentle pressure and stop the bleeding. Do not use any chemicals or antiseptics.
• Clean the area with warm water and mild soap or Betadine solution, but avoid getting water or soap in the nail bed.
• If there is an exposed nail bed, apply a small amount of clotting powder, corn starch, or flour to help stop the bleeding and cover the area with a small piece of clean cloth or bandage. It’s important to avoid using anything too tight or restricting the blood flow.
• Monitor your bearded dragon closely and provide a safe and quiet environment for them to rest and heal. Avoid handling or disturbing them excessively during this time, as this can cause more stress and discomfort. Make sure to keep their habitat clean and comfortable, and provide access to fresh water and food.
• If the broken nail is severe or doesn’t seem to be healing, or if there are any signs of infection or other health problems, seek advice from a reptile veterinarian.

Preventing Broken Nails

While it’s impossible to completely eliminate the risk of broken nails, there are some steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of your bearded dragon experiencing this problem:

• Provide a safe, spacious, and comfortable habitat that is appropriate for your pet’s size, age, and activity level. This includes using appropriate substrate, such as soft and absorbent materials or reptile carpet, and avoiding rough or sharp surfaces.
• Offer a varied and balanced diet that is rich in calcium, vitamins, and minerals. This can help keep your bearded dragon’s nails strong and healthy.
• Encourage your bearded dragon to exercise and move around regularly, such as by providing climbing structures and toys.
• Trim your bearded dragon’s nails regularly, using appropriate tools and techniques. This can help prevent overgrowth and breakage, as well as reduce the risk of injury or infection.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons are truly amazing pets, but they also require proper care and attention. If your bearded dragon has a broken nail, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further harm and promote healing. By following these steps and taking preventive measures, you can keep your bearded dragon healthy and happy for many years to come.