Introduction

Bearded dragons are fascinating and friendly reptiles, known for their unique appearance and docile nature. However, as with any pet, they can exhibit some strange behaviors that may leave you scratching your head. One such behavior is when a bearded dragon eats its own poop. This may seem disgusting to us humans, but it is actually quite common in bearded dragons. In this blog post, we will explore why bearded dragons eat poop and what you can do about it.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Eat Poop?

Before we dive into the reasons why bearded dragons eat poop, it is important to understand that this behavior is not unique to them. Many other animals and even some humans engage in this behavior, which is also known as coprophagy. However, in most cases, it is a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

In the case of bearded dragons, there are several reasons why they may eat their poop:

• Dietary deficiency: Bearded dragons are omnivores and require a balanced diet of vegetables, fruits, and insects. If they are not getting all the nutrients they need, they may resort to eating their own poop to make up for the deficiency.
• Impacted bowel: If a bearded dragon is constipated, it may eat its own poop to try and alleviate the condition.
• Territorial behavior: Bearded dragons are known to establish territories and mark them with their poop. If there are other dragons in the enclosure, a bearded dragon may eat its poop to prevent others from getting too close to its territory.
• Stress and anxiety: Bearded dragons may eat their own poop if they are stressed or anxious, as a way of self-comforting.
• Environmental issues: Poor lighting, temperature, and ventilation can create an unhealthy living environment for bearded dragons, which can lead to stress and illness. Eating poop may just be one of the many symptoms that can occur in such an environment.
• Habit: In some cases, bearded dragons may eat their poop out of habit, even if there is no underlying issue or deficiency.

Is It Dangerous for Bearded Dragons to Eat Poop?

Eating poop may not be dangerous for a bearded dragon, but it can be a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed. If left untreated, the underlying issue can escalate and lead to more serious health problems.

What Can You Do About Bearded Dragons Eating Poop?

The first step in addressing poop-eating behavior in bearded dragons is to identify the underlying cause. Depending on the cause, there are several things you can do to stop the behavior.

Ensure a Well-Balanced Diet

Make sure your bearded dragon is getting all the nutrients it needs from its diet. Consider adding a calcium supplement if necessary, and ensure that the food is fresh and free from pesticides and chemicals.

Ensure Proper Hydration

Bearded dragons require access to clean water at all times. Ensure that the water is fresh and that your dragon is drinking plenty of it. You can also provide your dragon with fresh vegetables and fruits that are high in water content.

Maintain a Healthy Terrarium Environment

Ensure that the temperature and lighting in the terrarium are appropriate for your bearded dragon’s needs. Provide plenty of hiding spaces and climbing opportunities, and keep the enclosure clean and well-ventilated.

Seek Veterinary Care

If you suspect that your bearded dragon’s poop-eating behavior is caused by a health issue, seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian can perform tests and provide treatments as necessary to address the underlying problem and prevent further health issues.

Conclusion

In summary, if your bearded dragon is eating poop, it could be a sign of an underlying issue. Identifying the cause and addressing it can prevent further health problems and ensure that your dragon stays healthy and happy. If you are unsure of why your bearded dragon is eating poop, or need further advice, seek veterinary guidance immediately.