My Bearded Dragon Won’t Move: Causes and Solutions

Bearded dragons are delightful pets. They are fun, curious, and friendly. They are a great choice for first-time reptile owners, and they make lovely companions. However, no matter how well you take care of your bearded dragon, there may come a time when you realize that your bearded dragon won’t move. This can be a cause for concern, but it’s important to remember that there are many reasons why your bearded dragon might not be as active as usual. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the causes and solutions of why your bearded dragon isn’t moving.

Reasons Why Your Bearded Dragon Won’t Move

The following are possible reasons why your bearded dragon won’t move:

• Temperature Problems: Bearded dragons need a warm environment to be active and happy. If their habitat is too cold, they may become sluggish or lethargic.
• Brumation: Bearded dragons go through brumation, which is a period of rest that lasts for several weeks. During this time, they might not move as much as usual.
• Lack of Appetite: If your bearded dragon isn’t eating enough food, they might not move as much as usual since they won’t have enough energy.
• Stress: Bearded dragons are sensitive creatures, and they can become stressed if their habitat is too noisy or if they are handled too much.
• Illness: Bearded dragons can get sick just like any other animal. If your bearded dragon is experiencing any symptoms, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Solutions for a Bearded Dragon That Won’t Move

Once you have identified the cause of your bearded dragon’s lack of movement, there are steps you can take to resolve the problem. Here are some possible solutions:

Temperature Problems

If your bearded dragon’s habitat is too cold, you will need to provide extra heat. You can do this by placing a heat lamp or ceramic heat emitter in their habitat. Make sure the temperature in their habitat is between 95-105°F during the day and no lower than 65°F at night. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature regularly.

Brumation

If your bearded dragon is going through brumation, there isn’t much you can do to make them move. Just make sure their habitat is clean, and offer them fresh water and vegetables once a day. Be patient and let them take the rest they need.

Lack of Appetite

If your bearded dragon isn’t eating enough, you will need to offer them healthy food options. Dark, leafy greens such as collard greens or kale, and vegetables such as carrots, squash, or sweet potato can be good options. Make sure you provide food that is appropriate for their age and size. You can also offer them live insects such as crickets or mealworms, as long as they are gut-loaded and dusted with calcium powder. If your bearded dragon still isn’t eating, you may need to take them to a veterinarian.

Stress

If your bearded dragon is stressed, you will need to create a calmer environment for them. You can do this by reducing the amount of noise in their room, providing them with plenty of hiding spots and dark areas, and minimizing handling. Try to give them a stable routine, so they know what to expect each day.

Illness

If you suspect that your bearded dragon is sick, you will need to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Signs of illness include lethargy, lack of appetite, diarrhea, weight loss, or breathing difficulties.

Conclusion

If your bearded dragon isn’t moving, it can be a concerning experience. However, there are many possible reasons why they might not be as active as usual. By identifying the cause of their lack of movement, you can take steps to solve the problem and make your bearded dragon feel better. Remember always to provide your bearded dragon with a stable and comfortable environment to live in. A happy bearded dragon is one that moves around and brings joy to your life.