Why is my bearded dragon breathing with mouth open and puffing air?

Question

Lately I have noticed my bearded dragon leaving his mouth slightly open. Sometimes, when his mouth is fully closed, he seems to "exhale" and I can see a little puff of air push out from his lips. Also I can see his beard growing and shrinking as he breathes. His home usually gets around 90 on one end and he eats about 3-4 superworms per day. He has greens though rarely touches them. Calcium sand bedding and a uvb lamp. Is this a normal habit or a cause for concern?

Todd Cecil · Accepted Answer

Thanks for reaching out about Smaug and including photos. Husbandry sounds good but diet is poor. Insects are not a complete diet and are highly deficient in vitamins and minerals, especially calcium. The clinical signs you mentioned are possible early signs of metabolic bone disease (difficulty inhaling) or a respiratory infection. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Try syringe feeding a vegetable puree or Gerber's vegetable baby food until a veterinary visit can be scheduled. If a respiratory infection, antibiotics will likely be needed to provide recovery. Good luck.

Why is my bearded dragon breathing with mouth open and puffing air?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?

Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?

My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

Share