What to Do If Your Bearded Dragon Has Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common problem in many reptiles, including Bearded Dragons. This condition can be caused by stress, parasites, or other illnesses. It is important to treat the condition promptly, as leaving it untreated for more than two to three days can lead to serious complications. Here are some tips to help you manage diarrhea in your Bearded Dragon.
Allow for Adjustment
If you have recently brought your Bearded Dragon home, it may simply be stressed due to the new environment. Make sure that the habitat is comfortable, and has adequate heat, lighting, food, and water, and give your pet a few days to adjust. Misting your pet with water is also important as reptiles with diarrhea can easily become dehydrated. But do not soak your pet, a light misting will suffice.
Seek Veterinary Care
If diarrhea persists, it is important to seek veterinary care from a professional who specializes in reptiles. Your pet may have parasites or an infection that requires prompt treatment. The two most common types of infection in Bearded Dragons are hookworms and parasites, which can be treated by deworming and prescribed medicine from a vet respectively.
Clean the Habitat
Your pet's habitat could be a source of stress or infection, leading to diarrhea. Clean the habitat thoroughly, remove your pet in the process, and sterilize it with a bleach solution. Be sure to rinse the habitat well to prevent harm to your pet. If you want to be extra careful, you can bake wooden parts of the habitat in an oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour and boil any other parts for 30 minutes to kill bacteria that may cause diarrhea.