My Beardie Does Not Seem To Be Growing

My Bearded Dragon Isn't Growing: Troubleshooting Your Beardie's Development

Is your bearded dragon (beardie) not growing as expected? This can be a worrying sign for any reptile owner. A lack of growth can indicate underlying health issues or husbandry problems. This article will explore common causes of stunted growth in bearded dragons and provide solutions to help your little friend thrive. Understanding your beardie's growth is crucial for ensuring their overall health and longevity.

Understanding Normal Bearded Dragon Growth

Bearded dragons typically reach adult size within 12-18 months, although this can vary. Growth is not linear; they'll have periods of rapid growth followed by slower periods. Factors like genetics, diet, and environment significantly influence their development. A healthy beardie will show consistent, albeit sometimes gradual, growth. Regular weight checks and length measurements are key to monitoring their progress.

Reasons Why Your Bearded Dragon Isn't Growing

Several factors can hinder your beardie's growth. Let's delve into the most common culprits:

1. Nutritional Deficiencies: The Cornerstone of Growth

Inadequate Diet: This is the most frequent cause of stunted growth. Beardies require a varied diet rich in calcium and other essential nutrients. A diet primarily consisting of insects lacking in nutritional value or a lack of leafy greens will lead to deficiencies. Ensure you're providing a balanced diet comprising around 80% insects (crickets, dubia roaches, etc.) dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements, and 20% leafy greens (collard greens, dandelion greens, mustard greens).

Calcium and Vitamin D3 Deficiency: These are crucial for bone development and overall health. A lack of these nutrients can directly result in metabolic bone disease (MBD), leading to stunted growth, skeletal deformities, and other severe health problems. Always dust your insects with a high-quality calcium and vitamin D3 supplement.

2. Environmental Factors: Temperature and Lighting

Incorrect Temperatures: Bearded dragons need a basking spot with temperatures reaching 100-110°F (38-43°C) to properly digest their food and absorb calcium. Inconsistent or insufficient basking temperatures impede digestion and nutrient absorption, hindering growth. Invest in a reliable thermometer and ensure the correct temperature gradient is maintained.

Inadequate UVB Lighting: UVB light is essential for the synthesis of vitamin D3, crucial for calcium absorption. Without sufficient UVB, even with dietary supplementation, your beardie won't be able to properly utilize calcium, resulting in MBD and stunted growth. Ensure your UVB bulb is the correct strength and is replaced regularly (every 6-12 months), even if it still appears to work.

3. Parasites and Illnesses

Internal Parasites: Parasites can rob your beardie of vital nutrients, leading to poor growth and other health issues. Symptoms can be subtle, making regular veterinary checkups crucial. Consult a veterinarian specializing in reptiles for parasite diagnosis and treatment.

Other Illnesses: Various illnesses can affect growth. Respiratory infections, bacterial infections, and other conditions can weaken your beardie and prevent them from thriving. Veterinary care is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

4. Genetics and Age

While less common, genetic factors can influence growth rate. Some beardies may naturally be smaller than others. Similarly, older beardies will naturally slow down in growth as they approach adulthood.

What to Do if Your Bearded Dragon Isn't Growing

1. Schedule a Veterinary Checkup: This is the most crucial step. A veterinarian can rule out underlying health issues and recommend appropriate treatment.

2. Review Your Beardie's Diet and Husbandry: Carefully examine their diet, ensuring it's varied and balanced, with sufficient calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation. Check your temperature gradient and UVB lighting setup.

3. Maintain a Clean Environment: Hygiene is crucial for preventing illness. Clean your enclosure regularly to prevent parasite infestations and bacterial growth.

4. Monitor Your Beardie Closely: Track their weight and length regularly to monitor their progress. Any changes in behavior or appetite should be noted and discussed with your veterinarian.

By addressing these potential issues, you can help your bearded dragon achieve its full growth potential and live a long, healthy life. Remember, prevention is key. Providing optimal care from the start is the best way to ensure your beardie thrives.