Bearded Dragon Shedding – What You Need to Know

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular pets in the reptile world. These fascinating creatures can make excellent companions and are relatively easy to care for. One of the most common issues owners face when it comes to bearded dragons is shedding. Bearded dragons will shed their skin periodically throughout their lives. This process is completely normal and is necessary for their growth and overall health. However, sometimes a bearded dragon can get stuck shed on their feet, which can cause discomfort and potentially lead to health issues.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Shed?

Shedding is a natural process for bearded dragons, and it’s all part of their growth and development. Shedding allows the dragon to get rid of any dead, dull, or damaged skin and replace it with new, fresh skin. Bearded dragons will shed all over their body, including their feet. This is perfectly normal and usually happens every few weeks to a few months, depending on the dragon’s age and overall health.

What Happens When a Bearded Dragon Gets Stuck Shed on Their Feet?

Stuck shed on a bearded dragon’s feet can cause discomfort, pain, and potentially lead to health issues. The reason for this is because the stuck shed can cut off the circulation to the toes or feet, which can be dangerous for your pet. If left untreated, the toes or feet can become infected, which can lead to more serious health problems. Additionally, if your bearded dragon is in pain or discomfort, they may not move around as much, which can affect their overall health and wellbeing.

How to Tell If Your Bearded Dragon Has Stuck Shed on Their Feet

One of the most common signs that your bearded dragon has stuck shed on their feet is if they are limping or favoring one foot over the other. You may also notice that your bearded dragon is not moving around as much as they usually do or that they appear to be in pain or discomfort. If you suspect that your bearded dragon has stuck shed on their feet, it’s important to act quickly to help them.

How to Help Your Bearded Dragon with Stuck Shed on Their Feet

There are several things that you can do to help your bearded dragon if they have stuck shed on their feet:

Soak the Feet

One of the best ways to help your bearded dragon loosen their stuck shed is to soak their feet in warm water. You can use a plastic container or tub to fill with lukewarm water, making sure it’s not too hot or cold. Let your bearded dragon soak their feet for about 10-15 minutes, and then gently rub the area where the stuck shed is with a soft cloth or toothbrush. This will help to loosen the stuck shed and make it easier for your bearded dragon to shed naturally.

Provide a Humid Environment

Another way to help your bearded dragon with stuck shed on their feet is to provide a more humid environment. Bearded dragons need a certain amount of humidity to shed properly, and if their environment is too dry, it can cause the shed to become stuck. You can use a reptile humidifier or mist the enclosure with water to increase the humidity level. Make sure not to mist the enclosure too much, as it can cause a damp living space, which can lead to health problems for your pet.

Add a Shedding Box

Another option is to provide a shedding box for your bearded dragon. You can create a box filled with damp sphagnum moss, which will help to increase the humidity level and make it easier for your bearded dragon to shed. Place the box in your pet’s enclosure and let them use it as they see fit. This can help to prevent stuck shed and make the shedding process easier for your pet.

Final Thoughts

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that make great pets. However, as with any pet, it’s important to take care of their health and wellbeing. If your bearded dragon has stuck shed on their feet, it’s important to act quickly to help them. Soaking their feet in warm water, providing a humid environment, and adding a shedding box are all great options to help your bearded dragon shed naturally and avoid potential health problems. By taking care of your bearded dragon’s needs, you can ensure that they live a long and healthy life.