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Bearded Dragon Eating Problems

 Bearded Dragon Eating Problems

One very common problem amongst Bearded dragons are eating problems. This can range from total anorexia (unwillingness or inability to eat), to poor appetite with chronic weight loss. One less serious problems include Bearded dragons not eating veggies or Bearded dragons only eating mealworms. The most common reason for Bearded dragon eating problems are most certainly husbandry related. The less common causes problems will be discussed on this page in some detail.

Bearded Dragon Not Eating

This is the most severe end of the not eating scale for Bearded dragons. Total anorexia can be very serious and should always be regarded as such. The most serious causes of anorexia are Bearded dragon diseases and Bearded dragon injuries. These might range from less serious disease i.e. Bearded dragon parasites, to more serious conditions such as fall injuries, impactions or bacterial infections.

Bearded Dragon Eating Difficulties

This group can be divided into a few categories namely Bearded dragons eating very little (i.e. compared to its cage mate), Bearded dragons eating, but performing poorly (i.e. not picking up weight), to Bearded dragons only eating certain foodstuffs i.e. mealworms or no veggies.

Bearded dragons that only eat small amounts of food are usually sick Bearded dragons, or they are bullied by their, usually larger, cage mates. I always tell people that if a Bearded dragon eats on a regular basis, no matter how little it is still okay. Problems start to exist when you can physically see that they are not eating as regularly as possible or if they are outgrown by similar a similar aged dragon under the same circumstances.

Larger Bearded dragons will almost always bully their smaller cage mates up to a point where they are too weak to eat. This might also end up in Bearded dragon biting behavior. This situation must be prevented by only keeping similar sized Beardies together.

Bearded dragons that are eating, but are unable to pick up weight (mostly seen on their overall body condition score) are also classified as being a sick Bearded dragon, but are usually more specifically infested by internal Bearded dragon parasites. Remember that a normal growing Bearded dragon can have a ferocious appetite, but might only start to pick up weight at an older age. This is normal.

Something that is also seen occasionally is Bearded dragons that do not eat veggies or only prefer mealworms. Mealworms are said to be extremely tasty to Beardies, making them more preferred over other Bearded dragon food. Those ones who refuses to eat their veggies can be encouraged to do so by withholding food for a few hours and by making sure their is always veggies available, especially during the early hours of the day.

Baby Bearded Dragon Eating Problems

When it comes to baby Bearded dragons there are a few important pointers to remember. Firstly, buy healthy, strong babies to prevent eating problems later on. Secondly, husbandry, husbandry, husbandry! When it comes to baby Bearded dragon eating problems, try to house babies individually, and never house adults / juveniles and babies together. Another important thing is to prevent handling as much as possible. Only handle these dragons when it is absolutely necessary! Last thing is to give the correct size prey. Only try to feed small sized crickets.

Bearded Dragon Eating Problem Stimulation

The correct husbandry, especially UV lighting and  temperatures, can't be stressed enough. Other means of stimulation includes using the correct sized crickets (perfect size is the distance of the space between the eyes of the gecko), by giving plenty of crickets at feeding time, or sometimes by not giving a lot of crickets at feeding. Some Bearded dragons will be stimulated by plenty of crickets running around, while others can be stressed out by this.

Bearded Dragon Not Eating Treatment

First of all, always separate a sick Bearded dragon from healthy ones. It is important not to wait until its too late when it comes to Bearded dragon eating problems. Correct what needs to be corrected, but if the problem is not solved rather organize a consult with an experienced Bearded dragon veterinarian sooner than later. Total anorexia can be serious and should be dealt with ASAP.

Bearded dragon eating problems are treated by finding the underlying cause, which can sometimes be very difficult. Remember to include a fresh sealed stool sample with the vet visit. A lot of the cases will be treated for parasites. Severe cases might need hospitalization. Supportive treatment includes parenteral fluids (drips) and force feeding.

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