Causes & Remedies for a Bearded Dragon's Diarrhea
Section 1: Why is My Bearded Dragon Having Diarrhea?
Diarrhea in bearded dragons can be caused by several common factors:
1. Excessive Water Intake: As omnivores, bearded dragons have a varied diet, often including live foods like insects, Dubia roaches, and crickets. Young to subadult dragons particularly enjoy these moving treats. As they grow into adulthood, their tastes tend to shift towards vegetables and fruits, such as strawberries, tomatoes, apples, kiwis, and grapes, which are high in water content. This can lead to diarrhea.
2. Digestive Issues: If your bearded dragon has consumed something unclean or刺激性食物, it may experience digestive upset, resulting in diarrhea. Typically, this is accompanied by an increase in the water content of the feces, but no other significant symptoms, with normal appetite and energy levels.
3. Enteritis: If your bearded dragon is not eating, appears weak, and has a darkened chin, it may be suffering from enteritis. This condition requires immediate veterinary attention and medication.
Section 2: How to Treat Diarrhea in Bearded Dragons?
1. For mild diarrhea, offer your bearded dragon electrolyte water and adjust the environment's temperature. Aim for a daytime temperature of around 38 degrees Celsius and a nighttime temperature of 2030 degrees Celsius if the room is cool.
2. You can also provide your bearded dragon with reptilespecific probiotics to restore gut flora and promote gut motility. Continue to monitor the feces for any improvements.
3. If you suspect enteritis, administer antidiarrheal medication. Since there are few medications specifically for reptiles, you may need to use veterinary or human antidiarrheal drugs in emergencies.
Diarrhea in bearded dragons often stems from consuming moldy food. Always ensure that the food you provide is fresh and free from spoilage. After opening the food, seal it tightly and store it in a cool, dry place to prevent spoilage. Additionally, maintain a clean and hygienic environment, as a dirty habitat can lead to gastrointestinal problems and even skin infections in your pet.
