Solve Your Bearded Dragon's Eating and Pooping Woes: What to Do When Your Bearded Dragon is Eating but Not Pooping?
Bearded Dragons are quirky and fascinating reptiles that make great pets. They are fun to watch, love to interact with their owners, and are easy to care for. However, like all pets, they can experience health issues that require your attention. One of the most common problems that Bearded Dragons face is eating but not pooping.
Why is Your Bearded Dragon Not Pooping?
Before we delve into the solutions, it’s essential to understand the reasons why Bearded Dragons don’t poop. Several factors contribute to this, including:
- Impaction due to ingestion of foreign objects
- Dehydration
- Low-temperature surroundings
- Lack of dietary fiber
- Stress
What You Can Do
As a responsible pet owner, it’s your job to make sure your Bearded Dragon is healthy and happy. When you notice that your Bearded Dragon is not pooping, you need to take action immediately. Here are some helpful tips:
Increase the Temperature
Bearded Dragons are cold-blooded reptiles that require specific temperatures to digest their food correctly. If the surrounding temperature is too low, it can cause them to become constipated. Make sure to maintain the temperature in their enclosure between 85-90°F. If you don’t have a heat lamp already, get one installed immediately.
Increase Their Water Intake
Dehydration is another common reason why Bearded Dragons don’t poop. Make sure your pet has easy access to fresh, clean water at all times. You can also try misting the enclosure lightly to increase humidity levels.
Add More Fiber to Their Diet
Bearded Dragons require a balanced diet that includes adequate amounts of fiber. Foods like collard greens, mustard greens, and turnip greens are excellent sources of dietary fiber. You can also try feeding them canned pumpkin or squash.
Provide a Bath
If your Bearded Dragon is constipated, you can give them a lukewarm bath. Let them soak for about 15-20 minutes in shallow water. This will help loosen up any hard stool that may be causing the impaction. Make sure to supervise them during their bath time.
When to Visit the Vet
If your Bearded Dragon still isn’t pooping after trying the above tips, it’s time to visit your vet. The vet will perform an X-ray to determine the cause of the issue. Depending on the severity of the impaction, they may need to perform a surgical extraction.
Final Thoughts
Bearded Dragons are fascinating pets that require attention and care. If you notice that your pet is eating but not pooping, take action immediately. By making the necessary adjustments to their care, you can help alleviate the issue before it becomes severe. Remember, when in doubt, always consult your vet.