Bearded Dragon Signs of Impaction: What you Need to Know

As a beginner bearded dragon owner, knowing the signs of impaction is crucial for your pet’s health. Impaction occurs when your bearded dragon’s intestine becomes blocked, usually due to ingesting an indigestible item. Impaction can be life-threatening if left untreated. In this blog, we’ll discuss the common signs of impaction in bearded dragons and what you can do to prevent it.

Common Causes of Impaction in Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are curious reptiles that love to explore their surroundings. Unfortunately, they sometimes ingest foreign objects that can cause impaction. These objects can include:

• Sand and gravel substrate
• Loose substrate that is not digestible
• Insects that are too large or not properly gut-loaded
• Fruit, vegetables, or other foods that are too large or not properly chopped

Signs of Impaction in Bearded Dragons

If your bearded dragon is experiencing impaction, you may notice the following signs:

1. Lack of appetite: Bearded dragons with impaction may refuse to eat, or they may eat less than usual.

2. Lethargy: Your dragon may seem more sluggish and less active than normal.

3. Bowel movements: Impacted bearded dragons may have diarrhea or may not produce feces or urates.

4. Puffy abdomen: Your dragon’s belly may appear swollen or puffy.

Preventing Impaction in Bearded Dragons

The good news is that impaction is preventable. Here are some tips to help you avoid impaction in your bearded dragon:

• Avoid loose substrate
• Provide a proper basking spot and UVB lighting
• Make sure all insects fed to your dragon are gut-loaded
• Chop up food into small, bite-sized pieces
• Monitor your dragon’s digestion and bowel movements regularly

What to Do If You Suspect Impaction

If you notice any signs of impaction, it’s important to act quickly. Here’s what you should do:

• Take your bearded dragon to the vet immediately
• Follow the vet’s instructions for treatment
• Make changes to your husbandry practices to prevent impaction from occurring again in the future

Final Thoughts

As a bearded dragon owner, it’s crucial for you to know the signs of impaction and take preventative measures to keep your dragon healthy. If you suspect your bearded dragon is impacted, don’t hesitate to contact your vet. With proper care and attention, your bearded dragon can live a long, healthy life.