As a proud owner of a bearded dragon, you know that they are one of the most beloved pets due to their playful and charming personalities. However, there may be a time when you notice that your bearded dragon’s eyes are sunken, and you might wonder what could be wrong. Sunken eyes in bearded dragons can be a sign of a serious health issue, but don’t worry, in this article, we will explore the causes, treatment, and prevention of sunken eyes in bearded dragons.
What are Sunken Eyes in Bearded Dragons?
Sunken eyes occur when the eyes of a bearded dragon appear to be deeper in the skull than usual. This is a result of the dehydration of the bearded dragon’s body. If you press gently on the skin between the bearded dragon’s shoulder blades and it does not immediately spring back into position, your bearded dragon may be dehydrated.
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Causes of Sunken Eyes in Bearded Dragons
Several factors can cause sunken eyes in bearded dragons, and the most common cause is dehydration. If your bearded dragon is not drinking enough water, they will become dehydrated, which can lead to sunken eyes. Other causes may include:
1. Illness
Bearded dragons can become ill, and one of the signs of illness is sunken eyes. Some illnesses that can cause sunken eyes in bearded dragons include respiratory infections, parasites, and vitamin A deficiency.
2. Inadequate Lighting
Bearded dragons require exposure to ultraviolet light to stay healthy. Inadequate lighting can lead to a lack of appetite, which can cause dehydration and sunken eyes.
3. Improper Diet
A bearded dragon’s diet should consist of a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits. If your bearded dragon is not getting the proper nutrition, it can cause dehydration and sunken eyes.
Treatment for Sunken Eyes in Bearded Dragons
If you notice that your bearded dragon has sunken eyes, there are a few things you can do to help them recover.
1. Increase Water Intake
Ensure that your bearded dragon has access to clean, fresh water at all times. You can also try misting your bearded dragon with water to encourage drinking.
2. Adjust Diet
Ensure that your bearded dragon’s diet consists of a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits. You can also add water to their food to help increase hydration.
3. Improve Lighting
Ensure that your bearded dragon has access to adequate lighting to encourage appetite and hydration.
4. Visit a Vet
If your bearded dragon’s sunken eyes persist despite these measures, it may be time to consult a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles. They can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment.
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Prevention of Sunken Eyes in Bearded Dragons
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent sunken eyes in your bearded dragon:
1. Adequate Hydration
Ensure that your bearded dragon has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
2. Proper Lighting
Ensure that your bearded dragon has access to ultraviolet light to encourage appetite and hydration.
3. Proper Diet
Ensure that your bearded dragon’s diet consists of a variety of insects, vegetables, and fruits to provide proper nutrition and hydration.
4. Regular Checkups
Regular visits to a veterinarian who specializes in reptiles can help detect and prevent health issues before they become serious.
Conclusion
Sunken eyes in bearded dragons
As we wrap up this article, we hope you have learned valuable information about sunken eyes in bearded dragons. Remember, hydration is crucial for your bearded dragon’s health and well-being. We know it can be tough to get your bearded dragon to drink water sometimes, but just remember, hydration is the key to avoiding sunken eyes and keeping your bearded dragon healthy and happy.
FAQs
- Can I give my bearded dragon beer to help with hydration?
No! This is a terrible idea, and we do not recommend it. Your bearded dragon may seem happy, but alcohol is not safe for them and can cause serious health issues.
- My bearded dragon has a water bowl, but they refuse to drink from it. What should I do?
Try misting your bearded dragon with water or offer them a shallow bowl of water. Bearded dragons may prefer drinking from a moving water source.
- Can I give my bearded dragon a bath to help with hydration?
Yes, you can! Giving your bearded dragon a warm bath can help with hydration and can also be a fun bonding experience for you both.
- Can I use eye drops to help with my bearded dragon’s sunken eyes?
No, you should not use eye drops on your bearded dragon without consulting with a veterinarian. Using the wrong type of eye drops can cause serious harm to your bearded dragon’s eyes.
- How often should I take my bearded dragon to the vet?
It’s recommended that you take your bearded dragon to the vet at least once a year for a checkup. Regular checkups can help detect and prevent health issues before they become serious.
