Bearded dragons, native to the arid regions of Australia, have evolved to tolerate high temperatures but but that doesn’t mean they like it dry! They require a consistent supply of water to stay healthy. The failure to provide enough water and maintain the proper humidity levels can lead to dehydration, which can have severe health implications for your pet.
It is important for bearded dragon owners to be aware of the signs of dehydration, the causes, and the preventive measures to keep their pet hydrated. In this article, we will explore the importance of hydration in bearded dragons, the warning signs of dehydration, and the steps you can take to keep your bearded dragon hydrated.
What is Dehydration?
Dehydration is the loss of water and electrolytes from the body, and it can occur when an animal does not consume enough water or loses too much water through sweating, urination, or other means. Dehydration can occur rapidly or over an extended period, and it can lead to serious health complications.
Causes of Dehydration in Bearded Dragons
Lack of Access to Fresh Water
The most common cause of dehydration in bearded dragons is a lack of access to fresh, clean water. Bearded dragons need a constant supply of fresh water to stay hydrated, and owners should ensure that their dragon’s water dish is always full and clean.
Improper Diet
Another common cause of dehydration in bearded dragons is an improper diet. Bearded dragons are opportunistic feeders and require a diet that includes a balance of fruits, vegetables, and protein. An improper diet can lead to dehydration, as well as other health problems.
High Temperatures
Bearded dragons are native to the arid regions of Australia and have adapted to survive in hot, dry conditions. However, if the temperature in their enclosure is too high, they can become dehydrated. Owners should monitor the temperature in their dragon’s enclosure and ensure that it is kept within the appropriate range.
Illness or Disease
Illness or disease can also lead to dehydration in bearded dragons. If your dragon is showing signs of illness or disease, such as lethargy, lack of appetite, or weight loss, it is essential to seek veterinary care.
Inadequate Humidity Levels
Bearded dragons also require a certain level of humidity to stay hydrated. If the humidity level in their enclosure is too low, they can become dehydrated. Owners should monitor the humidity level and ensure that it is kept within the appropriate range.
Signs of Dehydration in Bearded Dragons
Loose skin
When a bearded dragon is dehydrated, its skin may appear loose and wrinkled. This is because the skin loses elasticity when it is dehydrated.
Dry, wrinkled mouth
Another sign of dehydration in bearded dragons is a dry, wrinkled mouth. A healthy bearded dragon should have moist, plump lips.
Sunken eyes
Dehydrated bearded dragons may also have sunken eyes, which can be a sign of serious dehydration.
Lack of appetite
Dehydration can also lead to a lack of appetite in bearded dragons. If your dragon is not eating, it may be dehydrated.
Lethargy or decreased activity
Dehydration can also lead to lethargy or decreased activity in bearded dragons. If your dragon is not moving around as much as usual, it may be dehydrated.
Constipation
Dehydration can also cause constipation in bearded dragons, as the body conserves water.
Dark colored urine
Dark colored urine can also be a sign of dehydration in bearded dragons.
Prevention and Treatment of Dehydration in Bearded Dragons
Provide Access to Fresh Water
The most effective way to prevent dehydration in bearded dragons is to provide them with a constant supply of fresh, clean water. Owners should ensure that their dragon’s water dish is always full and clean.
Feed a Balanced Diet
As mentioned earlier, an improper diet can lead to dehydration. Owners should ensure that their bearded dragon is receiving a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, and protein.
Temperatures and Humidity Levels
It is crucial to monitor the temperature and humidity levels in a bearded dragon’s enclosure and ensure that they are kept within the appropriate range. High temperatures and low humidity can lead to dehydration.
Seek Veterinary Care
If an owner suspects that their bearded dragon is ill or has a disease, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately. Illness or disease can lead to dehydration.
Provide a Humid Hide
To maintain appropriate humidity levels, owners can provide a humid hide for their bearded dragon. This can be a container filled with damp sphagnum moss or a small plastic container filled with water that is placed in the enclosure.
Offer a Soak in Warm Water
Owners can also offer their bearded dragon a soak in warm water, which can help to rehydrate them. Soaks should be done for 10-15 minutes, once or twice a week.
Provide Electrolyte Supplement
Owners can also provide an electrolyte supplement to their bearded dragon, which can help to rehydrate them. Owners should speak to their veterinarian before providing an electrolyte supplement.
Conclusion
Dehydration is a critical concern for bearded dragon owners, and it is essential to understand the causes, signs, and prevention of dehydration. By providing a constant supply of fresh water, a balanced diet, monitoring and maintaining appropriate temperatures and humidity levels, seeking veterinary care when necessary, and providing a humid hide, owners can help to prevent dehydration in their bearded dragon. Owners should also be aware of the latest research and developments in the field and speak to their veterinarian if they have any concerns.
