Bearded Dragon Constipation Guide with Action Plan

Constipation in bearded dragons is a common concern for pet owners. If not treated, it can progress into impaction, which may lead to paralysis of the back legs and eventually death. Both constipation and impaction are uncomfortable, painful and preventable with proper care, though severe cases may require surgery.

  • Constipation occurs when a bearded dragon’s bowel movements are less frequent and more difficult to pass than usual.
  • Impaction refers to the blockage or buildup of material, such as feces, within a body passage or cavity.

Both bearded dragon constipation and impaction is discussed in this article.

Why is my Bearded Dragon Not Pooping? Causes

Bearded dragon constipation can be the result of various factors. Understanding these causes can help prevent and manage constipation in your pet. Here are the main factors:

Chronic Dehydration and Environmental Factors

  • Insufficient or Inappropriate Water Sources: Dehydration is a leading cause of bearded dragon constipation. Even if water is available, it must be easily accessible and appealing to your bearded dragon to encourage regular drinking. Inadequate water sources or low humidity in the enclosure can cause chronic dehydration. Dehydration can lead to dry, chalky urates (the white part of their droppings) and hardened fecal matter, making it difficult to pass. The colon absorbs moisture until defecation, so if stools are not passed in a timely manner, the stool can solidify into a rigid mass, increasing the risk of obstruction. Ensure your bearded dragon has access to fresh water and include moisture-rich foods like leafy greens in their diet.
  • Inappropriate Environmental Temperature & UVB: Proper temperature and UVB exposure are crucial for digestion and overall health and will aid in normal bowel movements. A well-maintained temperature gradient in the enclosure, with a warm basking area and cooler spots, is essential. Incorrect temperatures, especially in the basking area, can slow down digestion, leading to constipation. During cooler periods like brumation, only feed your bearded dragon if the temperatures are sufficiently elevated, as digestion significantly slows down. UVB exposure is also vital for calcium metabolism, which supports muscle contractions needed for bowel movements. Inadequate UVB can lead to conditions like Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (NSHP), complicating digestion and increasing the risk of constipation.
bearded dragon drinking during misting
Dehydration is a leading cause of bearded dragon constipation. Misting is a good source of water for bearded dragons.

Dietary Causes of Constipation in Bearded Dragons

  • Lack of Fiber: A diet low in fiber can significantly contribute to constipation in bearded dragons. Fiber helps bulk up the stool and promotes regular bowel movements. Without enough fiber, digestion slows, leading to the accumulation of fecal matter and constipation.
  • Long-Haired or Hard-Shelled Prey: Prey items with hard exoskeletons or long hair (e.g., adult mice) can be difficult for bearded dragons to digest, potentially causing blockages in the digestive tract. These blockages can lead to constipation or more severe impaction issues.
  • Ingestion of Indigestible Substrates: Bearded dragons can accidentally ingest substrates like calcium sand, gravel, or bark, which are not digestible and can lead to blockages in the digestive system. These blockages commonly cause constipation in bearded dragons kept in enclosures with loose substrates.
  • Obesity: Overfeeding, particularly with high-fat foods, can lead to obesity in bearded dragons. Excess body fat can physically restrict the passage of fecal material through the digestive tract, making bowel movements more difficult and leading to constipation.
Loose substrates can be scattered into food creating risks of ingesting and subsequently constipation or impaction.
Loose substrates can be scattered into food creating risks of ingesting and subsequently constipation or impaction.

Metabolic Causes

  • Hypocalcemia: Low calcium levels, or hypocalcemia, can disrupt the normal muscle contractions needed for bowel movements, leading to constipation. This condition is often linked to inadequate UVB exposure, which is essential for calcium metabolism.
  • Chronic Systemic Diseases: Diseases like kidney disease or anemia can slow down the digestive process, contributing to bearded dragon constipation. These conditions affect your reptile’s overall health and metabolic functions, making regular bowel movements more challenging.
  • Intestinal Neoplasia: Tumors in the intestinal tract can obstruct the passage of fecal matter, leading to severe constipation or fecal retention.

Internal Blockages Causing Constipation in Bearded Dragons

Specific health issues and conditions inside your bearded dragon’s body can create physical blockages or put pressure on their digestive system, leading to constipation. These include:

  • Kidney Enlargement (Nephritis): Enlarged kidneys or kidney stones (uroliths) can press against the digestive tract, making it hard for your bearded dragon to pass stool.
  • Cloacoliths: These are hardened masses that form in the cloaca (the common exit area for digestive, urinary, and reproductive tracts) and can block the passage of feces, leading to constipation.
  • Tumors and Abscesses: Growths like tumors or abscesses within the body can press on the intestines, making it difficult for your dragon to defecate normally.
  • Narrowed Pelvic Canal: If your bearded dragon has had previous injuries or reproductive issues, the pelvic canal might narrow as it heals, making stool passing more difficult.
  • Egg Binding (Reproductive Status): Female bearded dragons carrying eggs may experience constipation because the eggs can physically block the digestive tract, making it harder to pass stool.

Other Contributing Factors

  • Lack of Exercise: A sedentary lifestyle can slow digestion and reduce the frequency of defecation. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining healthy bowel movements and preventing constipation in bearded dragons.
  • Environmental Changes: Stress from environmental changes, such as moving the enclosure, introducing new cage mates, or exposure to new noises, can lead to constipation. Reptiles are sensitive to their environment, and significant disruptions to their routine can result in stress-related constipation.
  • Aging: Older bearded dragons often experience a slowed metabolism, which can lead to less frequent bowel movements and an increased risk of constipation.

Lack of drinking available water is a major cause of constipation.

BOYER 2015

When a Bearded Dragon Can’t Pee and its Role in Constipation

Cloacal Anatomy and the Role of the Vestigial Bladder in Bearded Dragon Constipation

One of the key anatomical features that predisposes bearded dragons to constipation is the structure of their cloaca. Unlike mammals, bearded dragons do not produce liquid urine. Instead, they excrete a semi-solid substance called urates, which are a combination of uric acid salts and water. These urates are typically seen as the white or whitish-yellow part of a bearded dragon’s droppings.

Bearded dragons have a vestigial bladder within their cloaca, which is a small and often difficult-to-identify structure. A vestigial bladder is an underdeveloped organ that has limited functionality compared to a fully developed bladder found in other animals.

Although this bladder has a limited capacity, it plays a crucial role in urate excretion. In bearded dragons, urates are transported into the distal colon for storage, where water absorption occurs. The colon’s primary function is absorbing water, which helps keep your bearded dragon hydrated.

The proper formation and timely excretion of urates are crucial in preventing the hardening of these substances, which can lead to constipation.

The Role of Urates in Bearded Dragon Constipation

As the colon absorbs water from its contents, the urate suspension, which starts as a fluid, gradually becomes more viscous, eventually forming semi-solid urate plugs. In a healthy, well-hydrated, and active bearded dragon, these urate plugs are easily expelled during defecation.

The colon continues to draw fluids while the urate is present. If the bearded dragon does not pass the urates and feces in a timely manner, more moisture will be taken from them until they harden into a solid mass, which is difficult to move and leads to bearded dragon constipation.

When palpating a bearded dragon’s abdomen, a veterinarian or experienced owner may feel these urate plugs if they are the cause of constipation or impaction. Proper management of hydration and awareness of the signs of constipation are essential to ensure the health and well-being of your bearded dragon.

Signs and Symptoms & Diagnosis of Bearded Dragon Constipation

Bearded dragon constipation can manifest through a variety of signs and symptoms:

  • Infrequent or No Bowel Movements: The most obvious sign is the lack of regular bowel movements. If your bearded dragon hasn’t defecated for a week or more, this is a clear indication that something might be wrong.
  • Loss of Appetite: A constipated bearded dragon may refuse to eat or significantly reduce its food intake due to discomfort.
  • Lethargy: A noticeable decrease in activity levels could indicate that your bearded dragon is struggling with constipation.
  • Swollen Abdomen: A visibly swollen or firm abdomen may suggest the presence of impacted fecal matter, which is a key symptom of bearded dragon constipation.
  • General Appearance: Depending on the duration of the constipation, your bearded dragon may still appear bright and healthy, or in more severe cases, it may become anorexic, weak, unresponsive, and possibly underweight.
  • Paralysis of Hind Legs: One or both of the back legs could become paralysed while the issue exists.

To diagnose bearded dragon constipation, a veterinarian will perform a thorough examination, which may include palpating your bearded dragon’s abdomen to check for abnormalities such as:

  • An enlarged, firm colon, indicative of an impacted colon.
  • Masses consistent with gastrointestinal foreign bodies.
  • Ovarian or oviductal abnormalities in female bearded dragons, which can also contribute to constipation.

Identifying these signs early allows for prompt treatment, helping to relieve your bearded dragon’s discomfort and restore normal bowel movements.

How to Help a Constipated Bearded Dragon: Tips and Treatments

The treatment for constipation depends on the severity and underlying causes. Any pain or deterioration in health requires veterinary advice before proceeding. Otherwise, here are some steps to help your bearded dragon poop:

  1. Soak in Warm Water: Start by soaking your bearded dragon in lukewarm water (36-40°C / 98-105°F) for 30 to 120 minutes daily. Longer bathing times may require the water to be renewed with warm water again. This can help stimulate bowel movements. Bathing a bearded dragon will only help increase hydration if it drinks the water. Bearded dragons cannot get fluids through their vent.
  2. Increase Hydration: Ensure your bearded dragon is appropriately hydrated. Provide fresh water daily and mist it with water. Consider offering moisture-rich foods like leafy greens.
  3. Improve Diet: Review the diet and adjust to include more fiber if needed. Offer a variety of leafy greens and high-fiber foods. Avoid feeding fatty or low-fiber foods and prey with hard exoskeletons.
  4. Check Environmental Temperature & UVB: Verify that the basking spot in your bearded dragon’s enclosure is warm enough and that the UVB light is combined with the heat in the same area (replicate the sun). Both are essential for proper digestion and calcium metabolism.
  5. Encourage Exercise: Provide opportunities for your bearded dragon to move around. Allow it to explore a safe area outside its enclosure or offer a large indoor enclosure with climbing structures to promote regular bowel movements.
  6. Assess and Reduce Stress: Identify and mitigate any environmental stressors. This includes reducing changes in the enclosure, minimizing exposure to new or loud noises, and avoiding sudden changes in routine.
  7. Inspect for Ingested Substrates: If your bearded dragon is housed on the loose substrate, ensure it has not ingested any material that could cause a blockage. Switch to a solid substrate if necessary.
  8. Monitor Weight and Prevent Obesity: Keep your bearded dragon healthy by avoiding overfeeding, especially with high-fat foods. Obesity can physically restrict bowel movements.
  9. Check for Parasites: Consult a veterinarian if you suspect a parasitic infection. Parasites can contribute to constipation, and professional treatment may be necessary.
  10. Investigate Internal Blockages: If your bearded dragon’s constipation persists, it could be due to internal blockages such as kidney enlargement, tumors, or cloacoliths. These conditions require veterinary intervention.
  11. Consider Reproductive Status: Female bearded dragons carrying eggs may experience constipation due to the physical blockage caused by the eggs. Veterinary assistance may be needed.
  12. Consult a Veterinarian: If the above measures do not resolve constipation, or if your bearded dragon shows signs of severe discomfort or health deterioration, seek veterinary advice. The vet may need to administer fluids, perform an enema, or address any underlying health issues.

If parasitic infections or other underlying conditions are causing constipation, a veterinarian’s assistance will be necessary for treatment. The vet may need to administer fluids through injection and possibly perform an enema to help clear the blockage.

Using Laxatives to Treat Constipation in Bearded Dragons

Laxatives are sometimes suggested as a remedy for constipation in bearded dragons. You may have heard that certain foods, like pure pumpkin puree, diluted prune juice, or a few drops of olive oil, can act as natural laxatives to help your bearded dragon pass stools more easily.

However, before treating constipation with anything other than water, bathing, and proper husbandry, it’s important to determine the underlying cause. For instance, if the constipation is due to ingesting bark rather than a hard urate, using a laxative could worsen the situation.

With proper husbandry practices, these types of interventions are generally unnecessary. In addition, no solid research supports the effectiveness of these natural remedies for treating constipation in bearded dragons. In most cases, the additional fluids from these remedies likely help resolve the issue rather than the specific foods themselves. Do not force a bearded dragon to eat when it is refusing food. If it is impacted, the situation will worsen.

Mineral oil should never be given orally unless specifically recommended by your veterinarian. Sometimes, a vet may use mineral oil in an enema if needed (Raiti, 2012).

Always consult your veterinarian before trying any home remedies.

How to Prevent Constipation in Bearded Dragons: Best Practices

Prevention is always better than treatment. To prevent constipation in your bearded dragon, consider the following tips:

  • Hydration: Ensure your dragon has access to fresh water daily. Regular soaks or spray-misting can help maintain hydration levels.
  • Balanced Diet: Provide a varied diet with plenty of leafy greens and appropriate insects. Avoid substrates that can be ingested.
  • Optimal Environment: Maintain proper heat and UVB lighting to support digestion. Monitor temperatures regularly to ensure they remain within the recommended range.
  • Exercise Opportunities: Allow your bearded dragon to exercise regularly. Physical activity aids digestion and overall health.
  • Monitor for Stress: Be mindful of environmental changes that could stress your dragon, such as moving its enclosure or introducing new cage mates.
Bearded dragon that has not moved bowels for 2 weeks.
Bearded dragon that has not moved bowels for 2 weeks and its belly is enlarged.

Bearded Dragon Constipation Investigation & Action Plan

1. Hydration Check

  • Water dishes are clean and easily accessible.
  • The bearded dragon is drinking regularly.
  • Signs of dehydration (e.g., sunken eyes, wrinkled skin) are absent.
  • The dragon is misted regularly.
  • Regular soaks in warm water are provided.
  • Moisture-rich foods (e.g., leafy greens) are included in the diet.

2. Environmental Conditions Assessment

  • The basking spot temperature is maintained between 95-110°F (35-43°C).
  • A proper temperature gradient is present within the enclosure.
  • The bearded dragon is receiving 10-12 hours of UVB light daily.
  • The UVB bulb is positioned correctly and not obstructed.
  • The UVB bulb is replaced as recommended by the manufacturer (every 6-12 months).
  • Humidity levels are within the appropriate range (30-40%).
  • Excessive humidity is avoided to prevent respiratory issues.

3. Dietary Review

  • The diet includes a variety of high-fiber leafy greens.
  • High-fiber foods like canned pumpkin or squash are offered.
  • Long-haired prey (e.g., long-tailed mice) are avoided.
  • Appropriately sized, soft-bodied prey are selected.
  • Loose substrates (e.g., sand, gravel) are not used or monitored for ingestion.
  • The diet is balanced, avoiding overfeeding high-fat foods.
  • A variety of insects and vegetables are provided to ensure nutritional completeness.

4. Exercise Monitoring

  • The bearded dragon has ample opportunity to move and explore.
  • Climbing structures and varied terrain are present in the enclosure.
  • The dragon has supervised outdoor time to promote natural movement.

5. Stress Evaluation

  • The enclosure setup or location has remained stable with no recent changes.
  • No new cage mates or recent introductions are causing stress.
  • The enclosure is placed in a quiet area away from loud noises.
  • A consistent daily routine for feeding and handling is maintained.

6. Weight and Obesity Check

  • The bearded dragon is maintaining a healthy weight.
  • Overfeeding, especially with high-fat foods, is avoided.
  • The bearded dragon has a visible waist and an appropriate body shape.

7. Internal Issues Inspection

  • There are no visible signs of abdominal swelling or firmness.
  • The bearded dragon’s abdomen has been palpated for abnormalities. Warning: It is strongly recommended that a veterinarian or an experienced reptile handler demonstrate the correct technique first. Incorrect palpation can cause damage, especially if there are internal foreign objects or eggs that create obstruction.
  • Female bearded dragons are checked for signs of egg binding.
  • The bearded dragon has no diagnosed chronic diseases (e.g., kidney disease, anemia).
  • No signs of tumors or abscesses affecting the digestive tract are present.

8. Parasitic Infection Examination

  • Feces are regularly checked for abnormalities or parasites.
  • Recent fecal tests for parasites have been conducted by a vet.
  • There are no ongoing treatments for parasitic infections.

9. Substrate Use Investigation

  • Loose substrates (e.g., sand, gravel, calcium sand) are not present in the enclosure, or if sand is present, it is controlled in dig boxes.
  • A solid substrate like reptile carpet, paper towels, or tiles is used if necessary.
  • The enclosure is cleaned regularly to prevent ingestion of substrate particles.

10. Metabolic Causes Review

  • The bearded dragon is receiving sufficient calcium and vitamin D3.
  • UVB lighting is adequate to aid calcium metabolism.
  • The dragon shows no symptoms of metabolic bone disease (MBD).

11. Aging-Related Issues Check

  • The bearded dragon’s diet and hydration are adjusted for slower metabolism.
  • Easily digestible foods are provided.
  • The dragon’s health is monitored closely, and age-related issues are addressed.

12. Reproductive Health Monitoring

  • Female bearded dragons are monitored for signs of egg binding.
  • A stress-free environment is provided to facilitate egg-laying.
  • Veterinary assistance is sought for reproductive health concerns.

13. Veterinary Consultation

  • Veterinary advice is sought for persistent or severe constipation.
  • Prescribed treatments (e.g., fluid therapy, enemas) are followed.
  • Any underlying health issues are addressed with a vet’s help.

Constipation Relief Action Plan for Bearded Dragons

Checklist ItemAction to Take
Hydration Issues– Increase misting frequency and ensure fresh water is always available.
– Provide regular warm soaks (98-105°F) for 30-120 minutes daily.
– Feed moisture-rich foods like leafy greens.
Inadequate Environmental Conditions– Adjust basking spot to maintain 95-110°F.
– Ensure a proper temperature gradient within the enclosure.
– Verify UVB light is functioning and correctly positioned.
– Replace UVB bulbs as needed.
Low Fiber Diet– Incorporate a variety of high-fiber leafy greens (e.g., collard greens, dandelion greens).
– Add high-fiber fruits and vegetables like pumpkin or squash.
Hard or Long-Haired Prey– Switch to appropriately sized, soft-bodied prey.
– Avoid feeding long-tailed or hard-shelled insects that are difficult to digest.
Substrate Ingestion– Remove loose substrates (e.g., sand, gravel, calcium sand) from the enclosure.
– Switch to solid substrates like reptile carpet, paper towels, or tiles.
– Monitor for substrate ingestion and clean enclosure regularly.
Obesity– Reduce the frequency of high-fat insect feedings.
– Increase the proportion of vegetables to insects in the diet.
– Encourage more physical activity through enhanced enclosure setup.
Hypocalcemia and Metabolic Issues– Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation.
– Provide proper UVB lighting to aid calcium metabolism.
– Consult a veterinarian for blood tests and appropriate supplementation.
Chronic Systemic Diseases– Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor overall health.
– Follow any prescribed treatments for underlying conditions like kidney disease or anemia.
Internal Blockages (Kidney Enlargement, Cloacoliths, Tumors)– Seek immediate veterinary assistance for diagnosis and treatment.
– Undergo necessary imaging or tests as recommended by the vet.
– Follow through with prescribed medical interventions (e.g., fluids, surgery).
Egg Binding (Reproductive Status)– Consult a veterinarian immediately if egg binding is suspected.
– Provide a suitable environment to facilitate egg laying.
– Follow vet’s advice for medical or surgical intervention if necessary.
Lack of Exercise– Enhance the enclosure with climbing structures, hiding spots, and varied terrain.
– Allow supervised outdoor exploration in a safe environment.
– Encourage daily physical activity.
Stress Factors– Minimize changes to the enclosure setup and location.
– Reduce exposure to loud noises and frequent disturbances.
– Maintain a consistent daily routine for feeding and handling.
Weight/Obesity Issues– Monitor your dragon’s weight regularly.
– Adjust feeding portions to maintain a healthy weight.
– Incorporate more exercise to prevent obesity-related constipation.
Parasitic Infections– Perform regular fecal examinations.
– Administer prescribed antiparasitic treatments if parasites are detected.
– Maintain strict hygiene to prevent parasite infestations.
Metabolic Bone Disease– Ensure proper calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation.
– Maintain adequate UVB lighting.
– Consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment if symptoms are present.
Aging-Related Metabolism Slowing– Adjust diet and hydration to accommodate slower metabolism.
– Provide easily digestible foods.
– Monitor health closely and consult a vet for age-related issues.
Reproductive Health Issues– Monitor female dragons for signs of egg binding.
– Provide a stress-free environment to facilitate egg laying.
– Seek veterinary assistance for reproductive health concerns.
Persistent Constipation– Immediately consult a veterinarian.
– Follow prescribed treatments such as fluid therapy or enemas.
– Address any underlying health issues as diagnosed by the vet.
Constipation Relief Action Plan for Bearded Dragons. Issues with actions to resolve.

Conclusion

Constipation and impaction are common issues in captive bearded dragons that can be effectively managed with proper care. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms early, and providing appropriate treatment is essential for ensuring your bearded dragon remains healthy. Regular monitoring of their diet, environment, and behavior, along with regular veterinary check-ups, will go a long way in preventing these issues.

If your bearded dragon shows signs of constipation consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate course of action for your situation.

Bearded Dragons World Community on Facebook

My beardie hasn’t took a poop in 5 days!! He’s never gone this long. I have given him warm baths but hasn’t worked. Any other suggestions? Bearded Dragons World on Facebook – Dawn

Penny
My beardie has se problem every week I bathe him in warm water and rub his belly whilst putting more hot water in and stoking water towards him gently it always works after 4-5 mins

Olivia
syringe water in her/his mouth, this does not hurt, put boiling water in bowl, let cool right down then syringe up and open mouth and syringe in….if you do a hot water bottle put towel around place dragon on top with towel rapping her/him just so no wriggling (and they love hot water bottles lol)…wen we rescued 2 very immaciated dragons (given 24 hours to live by our vet) they wud not eat or drink, they was put on 5ml syringe water every 4 hours and 5ml critical care every 4 hours……do the water with syringe and also get vet advice….dragons can go downhill very quickly….the 2 we rescued survived even tho they was given 75% of dying within 24 hours and 25% chance of living the next 3 days after, mine are now both thriving…the girl one has just laid fertile eggs lol

Lisa
Mine did that, I gave him some boiled pumpkin pieces and then put him in the basin in warm water and left him there till he did a pooh, took about half an hour but when he was done I bet he felt good haha

Dan
Just about two or three bites from the syringe every hour till they go. That’s what the vet suggested when I took my beardie in after not pooing for a week and a half.

Melissa
When mine would do this i would fill up a syringe of spring water to the first line and give it to her and the next day she poops. I have tried the baby food i tried warm baths and warm rice socks and olive oil none of the worked except for the water.

Some help and advice please… my beardie has pooped for over a week. what can I do? do I need to do anything?.. he’s a bit lethargic, though eating.. sleeps a lot.. Bearded Dragons World on Facebook – Faith

Clare
I was off tp the vets few weeks ago with mine. And she not been in ages. And as we had a while to travel in the car I had a hot water bottle and a blanket. Not too hot for her but to keep her warn. With the moving of the car and the hot water bottle warmth she had gone to the loo just before we got to the vets. Not sure if it was the journey or the warmth of the hot water bottle or both but it got her to go. Other than that o always give warms longer baths every day and rub her belly lower part and it usually works. Good luck. 🙂

Amy
Tummy rubs in the bath and make him swim works every time with mine.👍🛁💩

Sarah
Faith, we just went through the same thing. More than 3 weeks with no BM, barely eating and not as active. Took “him” to a vet and found out it was a her that they thought was preggers. Then said she wasn’t, but has an oversized liver. We changed her salad to baby spring mix and they had is give her a 7 day special protein. Not a vet, so not saying take my advice, just sharing my story as a reference possibly.

Jane
Definitely a nice warm bath and a little tummy rub. Worked a treat on our boy who has been out of sorts for some time.

Laura
I have 3 that are really not eating much and being very inactive, I think it’s a bit of early brumation due to the weather being so changeable in the UK, I have had the same problem with one of my boys, he hadn’t poo’d in 2 weeks so I gave him baby food with some olive oil and a nice warm bath after it and a belly rub, the next day he pooped and I was so so relieved, the Urate was absolutely rock solid, I couldn’t squash it between my finger and thumb, I had to snap it open to check there wasn’t anything it it that shouldn’t be there that could have blocked him up but I wonder why it was so so hard, could it have been too much calcium but he’s not getting much lately coz none of them are eating alot? But olive oil and baby food worked a treat for me xXx

Vickie
Yeah i agree with @mandy …lots of warm baths and a gentle tummy rub should work…Do not press hard on the tummy tho and rub down towards the poo area, This always gets mine going….

FAQs

Why is my Bearded Dragon not Pooping?

Constipation in bearded dragons can result from dehydration, inappropriate temperature or UVB exposure, dietary issues like low fiber or hard-shelled prey, metabolic causes such as hypocalcemia, and internal blockages like kidney enlargement or tumors.

How can I tell if my bearded dragon is constipated?

Signs of constipation in bearded dragons include infrequent or no bowel movements, loss of appetite, lethargy, a swollen abdomen, may progress into paralysis of one or both back legs and changes in general appearance such as weakness or weight loss.

What should I do if my bearded dragon hasn’t pooped in a week?

If your bearded dragon hasn’t pooped in a week, start by giving it a lukewarm bath to stimulate movement of its bowels. Investigate the cause. Commonly due to dehydration, there are other causes, and some will require the aid of a veterinarian.

References

Boyer, T. (2015). Diseases of Bearded Dragons. AV017 Conference Note. (Reptile & Amphibian Practice).

Lock, B. (2023, January 4). Constipation in Reptiles. Veterinary Partner.

Mans, C. (2013). Clinical Update on Diagnosis and Management of Disorders of the Digestive System of Reptiles. Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine, 22(2), 141–162.

Raiti, P. (2012). Husbandry, Diseases, and Veterinary Care of the Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps). Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery, 22(3-4), 117–131.

Wright, K. (2008). Two Common Disorders of Captive Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps): Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism and Constipation. Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine, 17(4), 267–272.