Bearded Dragon Hasn't Pooped in 2 Days: What to Do?
Bearded Dragon Pooping Habits
Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets due to their friendly and docile nature. They are easy to take care of and have a unique personality that makes them enjoyable to be around. However, like any other living thing, they have their own pooping habits. As a bearded dragon owner, it’s essential to be aware of your pet’s pooping habits to ensure they are healthy and happy. One sign of your bearded dragon’s health is their pooping frequency.
How Often Should a Bearded Dragon Poop?
Bearded dragons typically poop once a day or every other day. However, it’s not uncommon for them to skip a day or two occasionally. Their pooping frequency depends on various factors, including their age, size, diet, and overall health. Younger dragons tend to poop more frequently than older ones. Meanwhile, larger dragons may poop more than smaller ones. Additionally, diet plays a vital role in your bearded dragon’s pooping habits.
Bearded Dragon Diet and Pooping
Bearded dragons are omnivores, which means they eat both plant and animal matter, but their diet should consist more of plants. Their diet should include leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits. Additionally, they should also consume a balance of insects, including crickets and mealworms. However, certain insects have a higher protein content that can cause constipation or diarrhea if fed excessively. For example, excessive mealworm consumption can cause dehydration and constipation.
What Happens If a Bearded Dragon Doesn’t Poop?
If your bearded dragon hasn’t pooped in two days, it’s not necessarily a cause for immediate concern. It’s common for bearded dragons to skip a day or two of pooping, especially if they ate fewer insects than usual or had a change in their diet. However, if your bearded dragon hasn’t pooped in three to four days, it’s time to intervene. The longer your bearded dragon goes without pooping, the more severe the issue can become.
What to Do When Your Bearded Dragon Isn’t Pooping
If your bearded dragon hasn’t pooped in three to four days, it’s essential to intervene. Here are some things you can do to help them poop:
- Give them a warm bath in shallow water. The warm water can help stimulate their bowel movement.
- Gently massage their belly while they are in the water to help them poop.
- Increase their fiber intake by feeding them more leafy greens and vegetables.
- Reduce their insect consumption and avoid feeding them high-protein insects.
- Ensure they have access to fresh and clean water at all times to prevent dehydration.
- Regularly clean their enclosure to keep it hygienic and prevent infection.
When to Visit a Veterinarian
If your bearded dragon doesn’t poop after trying the above methods or shows other symptoms of illness, it’s time to visit a veterinarian. Other symptoms include lethargy, loss of appetite, and weight loss. A veterinarian can perform a physical examination and determine the underlying cause of your pet’s constipation. They may prescribe laxatives or other medications to treat the issue.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons are unique and beloved pets that require proper care and attention. As a responsible owner, it’s essential to monitor your pet’s pooping habits and intervene when necessary. If your bearded dragon hasn’t pooped in two days, it’s not necessarily a cause for concern. However, if it persists for three to four days or shows other signs of illness, it’s time to take action. Remember to give them regular baths, increase their fiber intake, reduce their insect consumption, and keep their enclosure clean. With proper care, your bearded dragon will live a long and healthy life.