Why Is My Bearded Dragon Lethargic? Signs and Causes

Like all animals, bearded dragons can also get sick. One of the most common signs of illness in bearded dragons is lethargy.

A healthy Bearded dragon is bright, alert, and almost always willing to eat.

In this post, we will explore the causes of lethargy in bearded dragons, the symptoms to look out for, and how to treat them.

What is Lethargy in Bearded Dragons?

Lethargy is a condition where your bearded dragon becomes inactive and sluggish. It is a sign that something is wrong with your pet. Lethargy can be caused by a variety of factors, including sickness, faulty housing conditions, low temperatures, overfeeding or feeding the wrong food, parasites, and dehydration.

Irrespective of the reason, lethargy in pet bearded dragons is an indication that something is wrong.

Differences Between Being Lazy and Lethargic

Sometimes bearded dragons simply act lazy during certain times of the year which is totally normal behavior. On the other hand, being lethargic is a whole other story.

There is usually a huge difference between a bearded dragon that is acting lazy and the one that is lethargic.

A lazy bearded dragon is one that lounges around for a day or two, and then suddenly becomes active and lively. This is quite normal, as these reptiles, like humans, can have their off days. Have you ever woken up feeling sluggish and uninterested in going to work or school? Well, bearded dragons can have those days too.

On the other hand, lethargic behavior in a bearded dragon can be a sign of a more serious issue. A lethargic bearded dragon may barely move, remain in one spot for several days, and appear weak and unresponsive. Such behavior could be a red flag that something is wrong with your pet’s health.

If your bearded dragon is simply being lazy, don’t panic, but it’s important to monitor its behavior closely for the next few days. However, if you observe lethargy, it’s imperative to seek help from a qualified veterinarian as soon as possible.

Signs of a Lethargic Bearded Dragon

• Unwillingness to eat
• Lying down and unable to use the legs
• Staying in one place most of the time
• Closed eyes and unaware of the surroundings

Greater concerns should be raised when a combination of the above-mentioned signs is observed.

1. Unwillingness to Eat

Bearded dragons are good eaters and should be interested in at least one meal a day on average. Although a little bit more tricky to judge in babies and newcomers, it becomes obvious when a strong bearded dragon suddenly stops eating. If this behavior continues for a period of days then your beardie is more likely lethargic.

2. Lying Down and Unable to Use the Legs

Healthy Bearded dragons are able to use their legs to lift their bodies off the ground. Their heads are also easily lifted into the air. A lethargic Bearded dragon is too weak to support its head and body.