The Importance of Keeping Your Bearded Dragon’s Ears Clean

As a bearded dragon owner, your pet’s health is your top priority. One commonly overlooked aspect of bearded dragon care is cleaning their ears. Bearded dragons can produce ear wax, just like humans, which can cause health problems if left unattended.

Bearded dragon ear wax can build up and lead to ear infections or even hearing loss. It’s important to check your bearded dragon’s ears regularly and clean them when necessary. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about bearded dragon ear wax and how to keep your pet healthy and happy.

What is Bearded Dragon Ear Wax?

Bearded dragon ear wax is a yellowish substance that can accumulate in the ear canal. This wax is made up of dead skin cells, dust, and other debris that gets trapped in the ear canal. A small amount of wax is normal for bearded dragons, but excessive buildup can cause health problems.

Symptoms of Bearded Dragon Ear Wax Buildup

If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may indicate an ear wax buildup in your bearded dragon:

• Head shaking
• Scratching at ears
• Loss of balance
• Reduced appetite
• Discharge from ears
• Hearing loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to clean your bearded dragon’s ears and monitor their health. If symptoms persist, you should consult a veterinarian.

How to Clean Bearded Dragon Ear Wax

Cleaning your bearded dragon’s ears is a simple process that can be done at home. Here’s how to do it:

Step 1: Gather Supplies

To clean your bearded dragon’s ears, you will need the following supplies:

• Cotton swabs
• Warm water
• Rubbing alcohol
• Towel or paper towel

Step 2: Prep Your Bearded Dragon

Before you start cleaning your bearded dragon’s ears, you will need to prepare them. Here’s how:

• Hold your bearded dragon gently but firmly
• Place a towel or paper towel under them to catch any debris
• Use your other hand to hold your bearded dragon’s head steady

Step 3: Clean the Ears

Now it’s time to clean your bearded dragon’s ears. Follow these steps:

• Dip a cotton swab in warm water
• Gently wipe the inside of your bearded dragon’s ear with the cotton swab
• Repeat as necessary until the ear is clean
• Repeat on the other ear
• Dip a new cotton swab in rubbing alcohol
• Gently wipe the inside of your bearded dragon’s ear with the alcohol
• Repeat on the other ear
• Allow your bearded dragon to shake their head to remove any excess debris

How Often Should You Clean Your Bearded Dragon’s Ears?

Cleaning your bearded dragon’s ears should be done on a regular basis, but the frequency will depend on the individual bearded dragon. Here are some general guidelines:

• Check your bearded dragon’s ears weekly
• Clean their ears if you notice any buildup or symptoms of an ear infection
• If your bearded dragon is prone to ear wax buildup, you may need to clean their ears more frequently

Conclusion

Bearded dragon ear wax may seem like a small issue, but it’s important to keep your pet’s ears clean to prevent health problems. With regular ear cleanings, you can help ensure that your bearded dragon is healthy and happy.