Why Does My Bearded Dragon Have a Hump on its Back?

Bearded dragons are one of the most popular reptile pets due to their docile nature and ease of care. They are generally hardy, but just like any other animal, they can develop health issues. One of the most common concerns that beardie owners face is seeing a hump on their pet’s back. If you’re wondering what causes this, keep reading to find out!

What is the Hump on the Back of My Bearded Dragon?

The hump on your bearded dragon’s back is a fatty deposit that builds up over time. This bump is located on the back, in the area of the hips or pelvic region. Some beardies develop a small lump, while others may have a larger bump or several bumps all over the back. The bump may not appear noticeable or may be very obvious depending on the size, age, and health of the bearded dragon.

Causes of a Hump on a Bearded Dragon’s Back

There are several reasons why your bearded dragon may develop a hump on its back:

1. Overfeeding or Obesity

Bearded dragons are opportunistic eaters, meaning they will eat almost anything that is presented to them. Overfeeding is one of the most common causes of excess fat buildup on your dragon’s back. Even though beardies can eat a lot, they can still become overweight when overfed too often or when given high-fat treats or inadequate care.

2. Lack of Exercise

Another common cause of fatty buildup in bearded dragons is a lack of exercise. These lizards are active and love to explore, climb rocks, and bask under the sun. Therefore, if they do not get enough exercise, they may develop a hump on their back.

3. Poor Diet

Bearded dragons require a well-balanced diet consisting of vegetables, fruits, and insects. They need different nutrients like calcium, protein, vitamins, etc. A diet deficient in nutrients, or lacking variety in food choices, can contribute to fat buildup on their backs.

4. Brumation Cycle

Brumation is a seasonal period where the bearded dragon’s metabolism slows down, allowing them to conserve energy. It usually occurs in winter or late fall. During this time, the dragon may start storing fat in preparation for the winter, which can result in a hump forming on their back.

How to Prevent and Treat a Hump on a Bearded Dragon’s Back

Preventing a hump on your bearded dragon’s back involves proper care and attention to their diet, exercise, and health status. Here are some tips to help you prevent or treat a hump on your beardie’s back:

1. Adjusting Your Bearded Dragon’s Diet

One way to prevent a hump from forming is to adjust your beardie’s diet. Ensure that they are eating the right portions of greens, fruits, and insects. Too many fatty foods or a deficiency in calcium can cause obesity, leading to a hump on their back.

2. Increasing Exercise and Activity

Bearded dragons need exercise and activity to stay healthy. They love to climb, bask, and explore their environment. Encourage your dragon to move around and interact with its surroundings by providing them with enough space to explore and adding various reptile-safe décor to their enclosure.

3. Medical Assistance

In some cases, medical assistance may be required to treat the hump on your bearded dragon’s back. A licensed reptile veterinarian can examine your bearded dragon and provide the necessary treatment or medication to resolve the issue.

Conclusion

Humps on a bearded dragon’s back can be concerning, but they are relatively common and treatable. The best way to prevent a hump from forming is by providing your beardie with a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and an adequately-sized enclosure. If you notice any unusual lumps or bumps on your pet’s back, be sure to consult a licensed veterinarian who has experience treating reptiles.