Bearded dragons should poop regularly, typically once a day or every other day. However, it’s important to note that the frequency of bowel movements can vary based on factors such as age, diet, and overall health. For example, young bearded dragons may poop more frequently, up to several times a day, while older individuals may go a few days between bowel movements.
Suppose your bearded dragon has not had a bowel movement in several days, or their feces appear abnormal in color or consistency. In that case, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to ensure no underlying health issues.
Normal Bearded Dragon Poop Frequency
Bearded dragons are known for their docile nature and make great pets for those who love reptiles. One of the most important aspects of caring for a bearded dragon is understanding their poop frequency. Knowing what is normal and what is not can help you identify potential health issues and prevent serious problems.
Adult bearded dragons usually poop anywhere from once a day to once a week. On the other hand, juvenile bearded dragons tend to poop more frequently, ranging from one to three times per day. As they age toward 18 months, they often decrease their poop schedules to just 2 to 3 times a week. However, like humans, every bearded dragon is different and may have unique poop frequency.
The frequency of a bearded dragon’s poop can also be influenced by its diet. For example, a diet high in protein can lead to more frequent bowel movements, while a diet low in fiber can lead to constipation. Therefore, a balanced diet for your bearded dragon is important to maintain overall health and regular bowel movements.
Stress can also affect a bearded dragon’s poop frequency. If your bearded dragon is stressed or anxious, it may stop pooping for several weeks. However, not pooping for more than a week could indicate a more serious health issue, such as impaction or constipation.
Factors Affecting Bearded Dragon Poop Frequency
Diet
One of the most important factors affecting a bearded dragon’s bowel movement frequency is its diet. Bearded dragons are omnivores, meaning they eat animal and plant-based foods. A balanced diet for a bearded dragon should consist of 50% insects and 50% vegetables and fruits.
However, the type and quantity of food given to a bearded dragon can greatly affect their poop frequency. For example, if a bearded dragon is fed too many high-protein insects, it may poop more frequently. On the other hand, if a bearded dragon is not given enough fiber-rich vegetables, it may experience constipation and poop less frequently.
Temperature
The temperature of a bearded dragon’s environment can also affect its poop frequency. Bearded dragons are ectothermic, which means they rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature.
If a bearded dragon’s basking spot is too cool, it may be unable to digest its food properly, leading to constipation and less frequent bowel movements. Conversely, if a bearded dragon’s basking spot is too hot, it may become dehydrated and poop more frequently.
Hydration
Proper hydration is crucial for a bearded dragon’s digestive health and poop frequency. Bearded dragons should always have access to fresh, clean water. In addition, providing a shallow water dish for soaking can help prevent constipation and encourage bowel movements. For example, if dehydrated, a bearded dragon may experience constipation and poop less frequently.
Age
The age of a bearded dragon can also affect its poop frequency. Young bearded dragons typically poop more frequently than adults. For example, a bearded baby dragon may poop one to three times a day, while an adult may only poop once a week because young bearded dragons have faster metabolisms and require more frequent feeding and elimination.
Health
A bearded dragon’s overall health can greatly affect its poop frequency. If a bearded dragon is sick or stressed, it may experience changes in its bowel movements. For example, a bearded dragon with an intestinal blockage may not be able to poop at all, while a stressed bearded dragon may experience diarrhea or constipation.
It’s important to monitor a bearded dragon’s poop frequency and consistency to ensure it is healthy and not experiencing any digestive issues.
Abnormal Bearded Dragon Poop Frequency
Constipation
According to Arizona Exotic Animal Hospital, constipation is a common issue in bearded dragons. It can be caused by a lack of fiber in their diet, dehydration, or a lack of exercise. If a bearded dragon is constipated, it will have difficulty passing stool. Some of the signs of constipation include:
- No bowel movements for several days
- Straining to poop
- Passing small, hard, dry stools
- Lethargy and loss of appetite
If a bearded dragon is constipated, it is important to take action quickly. Some remedies include increasing fiber in their diet, providing a warm bath to help them relax and pass stool, increasing hydration by misting or providing a water dish, and providing more opportunities for exercise and movement.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another issue that can cause abnormal poop frequency in bearded dragons. Various factors, including bacterial infections, parasites, or a sudden change in diet, can cause it. Some of the signs of diarrhea include:
- Watery or loose stools
- Increased frequency of bowel movements
- Loss of appetite and lethargy
If a bearded dragon has diarrhea, it is important to take action quickly. Some remedies I did when my bearded dragon had diarrhea included providing a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice. Also, increasing hydration by misting or providing a water dish, providing probiotics to help restore gut health, and consulting a veterinarian for further treatment.
Impaction
Impaction is a serious issue that can cause blockages in a bearded dragon’s digestive system. It can be caused by ingesting substrate or other foreign objects or by a lack of hydration and fiber in their diet. Some of the signs of impaction include:
- No bowel movements for several days
- Straining to poop
- Loss of appetite and lethargy
- Swollen or painful belly
If a bearded dragon has an impaction, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. Some remedies include providing a warm bath to help them relax and pass stool, a diet high in fiber to help move stool through the digestive system, hydration through misting or a water dish, and consulting a veterinarian for further treatment, which may include surgery.
Tips for Encouraging Regular Bearded Dragon Poop
Bearded dragons are known for their slow digestive systems, so they do not poop as frequently as other animals. However, it is important to ensure that they are pooping regularly to avoid any health issues. Here are some tips to encourage regular bearded dragon poop:
- Provide a balanced diet: A diet high in protein and low in fiber can cause constipation in bearded dragons. Ensure a balanced diet that includes a variety of vegetables, fruits, and insects.
- Hydration: Dehydration can cause constipation in bearded dragons. Ensure to provide a shallow dish of fresh water for your bearded dragon to drink from and regularly mist their enclosure to maintain humidity.
- Warmth: Bearded dragons require a basking spot to regulate their body temperature. This spot should be kept at around 95-100°F. This warmth helps stimulate digestion and bowel movements.
- Exercise: Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements. Provide your bearded dragon ample space to move around and climb in their enclosure.
- Bath time: Soaking your bearded dragon in lukewarm water can help stimulate bowel movements. Ensure the water is not too hot or cold, and supervise your bearded dragon during bath time.
Following these tips, you can encourage regular bearded dragon poop and ensure your dragon stays healthy and happy.
