Introduction

Bearded dragons are a popular pet choice for reptile enthusiasts. These gentle and docile creatures are known for their unique appearance, which includes a spiky beard and a triangular head. However, like all pets, bearded dragons are prone to injuries.

Injuries can happen for a variety of reasons, such as rough handling, inadequate living conditions or even fighting with other bearded dragons. In this article, we will discuss common injuries in bearded dragons, how to prevent them, and what to do if your bearded dragon gets injured.

Common Injuries

Bearded dragons are hardy creatures, but they can still experience injuries. The most common injuries seen in bearded dragons include:

• Burns
• Scratches
• Broken bones
• Tail injuries
• Eye injuries

Burns

Burns are a common injury in bearded dragons. They can occur when a heat source is too close to the enclosure or when the bearded dragon accidentally comes in contact with a hot surface. Burn injuries can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, can even be life-threatening.

To prevent burns, ensure that your bearded dragon’s enclosure is set up correctly, with appropriate heat lamps and heat mats used. Monitor the temperature of the enclosure regularly and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it is within a safe range for your pet. If your bearded dragon does experience a burn injury, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Scratches

Bearded dragons may scratch themselves on rough surfaces or from climbing around their enclosure. Scratches are usually minor and can be treated at home, but if they become infected, veterinary care may be necessary.

Broken Bones

Broken bones are a less common but more severe injury in bearded dragons. These injuries usually occur from falls or other traumatic incidents. If you suspect your bearded dragon may have a broken bone, seek veterinary care right away. Splinting or surgery may be necessary to treat the injury.

Tail Injuries

Bearded dragons store fat and water in their tail, making it an important part of their body. A tail injury can be distressing for your pet and even affect their overall health. Tail injuries can occur from fighting with other bearded dragons or getting caught in objects or even doors. If your bearded dragon loses its tail, it is important to seek veterinary care to ensure that the wound is clean and that there are no other injuries.

Eye Injuries

Eye injuries in bearded dragons can be caused by a variety of things, including rough handling, scratches from enclosure objects or debris, or infections. Eye injuries may cause your pet to have difficulty seeing, and in severe cases, may even cause blindness. If you suspect your bearded dragon has injured its eye, seek veterinary care right away.

Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to injuries in pets. Here are some things you can do to prevent injuries in your bearded dragon:

• Ensure the enclosure is set up correctly, with appropriate heat lamps and heat mats used
• Monitor the temperature of the enclosure regularly and make adjustments as necessary
• Keep the enclosure clean to prevent infection
• Use appropriate substrates to prevent scratches and injuries
• Handle your bearded dragon gently and with care
• Do not house bearded dragons together, as fighting and injuries can occur

Treatment

If your bearded dragon does get injured, it is important to seek veterinary care right away. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe injury or infection. Here are some tips for treating common injuries at home:

Burns

If your bearded dragon experiences a burn injury, cool the area with cold water immediately. Do not apply ointment or cream to the burn. Seek veterinary care as soon as possible.

Scratches

Clean the scratch with an antiseptic solution, and keep an eye on it for signs of infection. If the scratch appears to be getting worse or your bearded dragon is showing signs of distress, seek veterinary care.

Broken Bones

If you suspect your bearded dragon has a broken bone, do not attempt to splint it yourself. Keep your bearded dragon calm and seek veterinary care immediately.

Tail Injuries

If your bearded dragon loses its tail, seek veterinary care immediately. If there is bleeding, apply pressure with a clean cloth. Do not attempt to reattach the tail yourself.

Eye Injuries

If your bearded dragon has an eye injury, keep the eye clean and monitor for signs of infection. Seek veterinary care immediately.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons are adorable creatures and make great pets. However, they are still prone to injuries. Prevention is the best approach, so ensure that your bearded dragon’s enclosure is set up correctly and that you handle your pet gently. If your bearded dragon gets injured, seek veterinary care immediately. With proper care and attention, your bearded dragon will live a long and healthy life.