Is Your Bearded Dragon Refusing Food? Here’s What You Need to Know

Bearded dragons are popular pets due to their docile nature and easy-to-manage size. However, like any other animal, they can experience health issues. One of the most common problems that bearded dragon owners face is the refusal to eat.

If your bearded dragon has not eaten in a week or more, don’t panic! This article will provide you with tips and tricks to help you determine the cause and get your dragon back on track to a healthy and happy appetite.

Potential Causes for a Loss of Appetite

Before you can help your bearded dragon, it’s important to identify the underlying problem. Here are some potential causes of a loss of appetite:

• Brumation - this is a natural process where bearded dragons slow down their metabolism and reduce their activity during the winter months
• Stress - moving to a new environment, changes in temperature, and new pets or people in the household can all cause stress
• Illness - parasites, infections, and diseases can cause a bearded dragon to lose its appetite
• Improper diet - not feeding your bearded dragon a balanced and nutritious diet can lead to health issues that result in a loss of appetite

How to Tell If Your Bearded Dragon is Sick

If your bearded dragon has not eaten in a week, it’s important to keep a close eye on its overall behavior and health. Here are some signs to look for that may indicate that your pet is sick:

• Lethargy - your bearded dragon may be less active than usual and reluctant to move around
• Weight loss - if your bearded dragon is not eating, it may begin to lose weight
• Runny feces - diarrhea or runny stools can be a sign of digestive issues or parasites
• Nasal discharge - if your bearded dragon has a runny nose or is sneezing, it may have a respiratory infection
• Swollen limbs or joints - this can signify a bacterial or fungal infection in your bearded dragon

Tips to Encourage Your Bearded Dragon to Eat

If you suspect that your bearded dragon is not eating due to something other than brumation, here are some tips to help encourage your pet to eat:

Check Temperature and Lighting

Bearded dragons require specific environmental conditions to stay healthy. Make sure that your dragon’s habitat is set up properly with the right temperature and lighting. Bearded dragons require a basking spot in their enclosure with a temperature of 95-100°F and a cooler side of around 85°F. They also require UVB lighting to help them metabolize calcium properly. If your bearded dragon’s habitat is not set up correctly, it can cause stress, which can lead to a loss of appetite.

Offer a Variety of Food

Bearded dragons require a varied diet to obtain all of the necessary nutrients. Offer a combination of insects, vegetables, and fruits to your dragon. Some popular insects for bearded dragons include crickets, mealworms, and waxworms. Vegetables such as lettuce, carrots, and bell peppers can also be offered. Fruits should be fed sparingly due to their high sugar content, but some options include strawberries, blueberries, and apples. Be sure to research which foods are safe for your dragon to eat and which should be avoided.

Hand-Feed Your Bearded Dragon

If your bearded dragon is not eating on its own, you may need to hand-feed it. Place small pieces of food near your dragon’s face and gently rub them against its lips. This can help stimulate your dragon’s appetite and entice it to eat. Be patient and try not to force your dragon to eat as this can lead to more stress.

Consult a Veterinarian

If none of these tips work and your bearded dragon still refuses to eat, it’s time to consult a veterinarian. A veterinarian can diagnose any underlying health issues and provide the appropriate treatment. It’s important to address the issue promptly to ensure your bearded dragon’s overall health and well-being.

Final Thoughts

A bearded dragon not eating can be a sign of various health issues, but it’s important not to panic. By following the tips and tricks above, you can help identify the cause and encourage your dragon to eat. With patience and attention, your bearded dragon will be back to its healthy, happy self in no time!