Why Is My Bearded Dragon’s Poop Red?
If your bearded dragon’s poop is red, you may be wondering what could be causing it. Red poop in bearded dragons can indicate mild or serious medical problems, and it’s important to have your reptile examined by a veterinarian if you notice this change in the color of their poop.
1. Hematochezia
The most common cause of red feces in bearded dragons is hematochezia, which is when blood is present in the stool. This is usually caused by intestinal parasites or a lens injury, since the large intestine and cloaca of the dragon is particularly sensitive.
2. Bacterial Infection
Bacterial infections can also cause red poop in bearded dragons. If your reptile has an infection, this will likely be accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of appetite, lethargy, weight loss, and labored breathing.
3. Stress
Stress-related issues can also cause red poop in bearded dragons. This can be due to stress caused by changes in their environment, or the presence of another animal in the house. Other signs of stress include aggressive behavior, hiding, an absence of physical activity, and refusal to eat.
4. Dietary Issues
In some cases, red poop in bearded dragons may be caused by an imbalance in their diet. Bearded dragons need a balanced diet of insects, leafy greens, and vegetables. An improper diet can result in intestinal issues that can lead to red feces.
Treatments for Red Poop in Bearded Dragons
If your bearded dragon has red feces, it’s important to take them to a veterinarian as soon as possible to identify the cause and begin treatment. Here are some of the treatments a veterinarian may recommend, depending on the cause of the red feces:
- Antibiotics – If a bacterial infection is causing your dragon’s red feces, antibiotics can help to clear it up.
- Fluid and Nutrient Therapy – If your dragon is lacking the necessary fluids and nutrients, your vet may recommend supplements to help get them back in balance.
- Parasite Treatment – Your vet may prescribe medications to get rid of any intestinal parasites that could be causing red feces.
- Surgery – In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove foreign objects from your dragon’s large intestine or cloaca.
It’s important to remember that red feces in bearded dragons can be a sign of a medical issue, so it’s important to have your reptile examined by a veterinarian immediately if you notice this change in their poop.
