Bearded Dragon Shedding Around Mouth

What is Shedding in Bearded Dragons?

Bearded dragons shed their skin as they grow. This process is called shedding. It is a natural process that occurs throughout their life, and it is essential for their health and well-being. Shedding helps to remove dead or damaged skin, allowing new skin to grow and protect the body.

Shedding usually begins at the head and moves towards the tail. It can take several weeks for the process to complete, and during this time, the bearded dragon may appear dull or cloudy. Shedding is a sign of a healthy bearded dragon, and it is something that you should expect and prepare for as a bearded dragon owner.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Shed Around Their Mouth?

Bearded dragons can shed around their mouth for several reasons. Here are some of the most common causes of shedding around the mouth:

• Mouth rot
• Dehydration
• Poor nutrition
• Stress
• Injury or damage to the mouth or jaws
• Infection

Mouth rot, also known as Infectious Stomatitis, is a bacterial infection that can cause shedding around the mouth. This condition can be severe and may cause other health problems if left untreated. Dehydration and poor nutrition can also cause shedding around the mouth, as these conditions can cause the skin to become dry and damaged.

Stress can also be a factor in shedding around the mouth. Bearded dragons that are stressed or anxious may shed more frequently or develop shedding problems. Injury or damage to the mouth or jaws can also cause shedding around the mouth, as can infections or other health problems.

Remedies and Tips for Bearded Dragon Shedding Around Mouth

If your bearded dragon is shedding around the mouth, there are several remedies and tips that you can try to help them feel better and recover quickly:

1. Check for Mouth Rot

If you suspect that your bearded dragon has mouth rot, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Mouth rot can be a severe condition that can cause other health problems and may require antibiotics or other treatments to heal.

2. Increase Hydration

Dehydration can be a cause of shedding around the mouth, so it is essential to keep your bearded dragon hydrated. Offer water frequently and consider misting the enclosure to increase humidity levels.

3. Improve Nutrition

Proper nutrition is essential for a healthy bearded dragon. Make sure that your bearded dragon’s diet includes enough calcium and vitamin D to support healthy skin and shedding. Consider offering a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as insects and other protein sources.

4. Reduce Stress

Stress can be a factor in shedding around the mouth, so it is essential to reduce stress wherever possible. Offer a safe and comfortable enclosure, avoid handling your bearded dragon too much, and keep the enclosure clean and well-maintained.

Conclusion

Shedding is a natural process that occurs in bearded dragons throughout their life. Shedding around the mouth can be a sign of mouth rot, dehydration, poor nutrition, stress, or injury. If your bearded dragon is shedding around the mouth, it is essential to seek veterinary care and consider improving hydration, nutrition, and reducing stress. With proper care and attention, your bearded dragon should recover quickly and return to normal shedding patterns.