You are, undoubtedly, a true bearded dragon enthusiast and you probably have had a chance to see your pet do some astonishing things. Why Is my Bearded Dragon shaking? This page will reveal all.
If you are an owner of a bearded dragon it can be rather concerning to observe that your pet shakes, which is why you might be asking yourself a question “Why is my bearded dragon shaking?” While there are several known causes in its behavior, for example, fear, aggression, or basking there are several off-beat and relatively unknown reasons for the same.
As we know, shaking in bearded dragons is not normal; therefore, in this extensive piece, we will provide a complete guide on the lesser-known causes of trembling in bearded dragons so that you can understand what the possible problems are and how to address them to maintain your pet’s wellbeing.
Understanding Bearded Dragon Behavior: THE BASICS
To understand the nature of shaking as a specific phenomenon, it is necessary to turn to a general analysis of bearded dragon behavior. As a breed, bearded dragons are not aggressive and are more on the docile side; this makes most reptile lovers go for this reptile.
Although, in general, they are not very active; Their activity has different motives and aims, which will be discussed in detail below.
Shaking, especially when it involves the head and particularly in glass beetles, bearded dragons may display this in various ways, and the message changes with the other signs it gives. Thus, one should learn and understand the different signs and signals of bearded dragons and their reactions to their environment to be able to decipher the intended message being conveyed by the shaking.
For example, movement such as shaking can be interpreted in different ways; the bearded dragon could be stressed or even afraid and the movement is a way of trying to offset the perceived size of a predator.
On the other hand, shaking can also be an aggressive action by the bearded dragon where the animal shakes to postures to show the other the way forward or ward off an opponent.
Also while basking, bearded dragons can shake as they control their temperatures through changes in their postures and other positions toward the heat. This type of shaking is known to be harmless and is, actually, a part of the thermoregulation process of these animals.
Thus, by knowing more about bearded dragon behavior in general, you will be able to understand what can cause shaking in your pet and possibly deal with the problem effectively.
Unexpected Causes of Beared Dragon Shaking
It thus goes without saying that while primary reasons for bearded dragon shaking are known, there are some of unusual and shocking causes that anyone may not be familiar with. Let’s explore these unexpected causes in detail:
1. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)
MBD is understood to be a severe health threat among bearded dragons and shaking may be one of the first symptoms of this disease. MBD is a result of a deficiency in calcium or vitamin D3 resulting to the development of rickets which is characterized by weak bones as well as spasms.
Trembling or shaking is quite common in bearded dragons with MBD, particularly when it affects their limbs and head. This is because all the bones and muscles of the body become fragile and they cannot support the weight and movements needed to carry the bearded dragon without shaking.
So, if you find that your bearded dragon is shaking and you have a suspicion that may be MBD, it is recommended that you take the practically-challenged beardie to a vet for an examination. However, the veterinarian can run tests such as a blood test or X-ray to establish MBD and other instigating factors.
MBD treatment depends on the calcium and vitamin D3 deficiency detected in a child and can include diet changes, vitamin or calcium supplements, as well as possible medication. If a patient has deficiencies in these vital nutrients, then the veterinarian may prescribe a balanced diet or supplements for proper correction.
As previously mentioned, MBD can be lethal in some cases if the diagnosis is delayed; therefore, early veterinary care is recommended. This way, with the help of the right treatment connected with the cause of the shaking, you will be able to help your bearded dragon restore their strength and get back on their feet.
2. Neurological Disorders
The neurological problems that may affect the bearded dragon manifest itself in shaking or tremors in the body. Some of these disorders may be occasioned by injuries, infections, or even through Inherited characteristics.
An example of a neurological disease responsible for shaking in bearded dragons is Wobbly Hedgehog Syndrome (WHS). WHS is a chronic, ultimately fatal, demyelinating disease of the CNS that results in intractable ataxia and akinetic-rigid syndrome; in up to one-third of patients, it evolves into tremor.
Although WHS is mainly described in hedgehogs, it is also seen in bearded dragons.
Symptoms of WHS in bearded dragons may include:
– Shaking or trembling especially of the head or the limbs
– Ataxia
– Stiffness to move or go for a walk
– Symptoms that are related to behavior where the patient may exhibit symptoms like lack of movement, or poor eating habits.
If the bearded dragon has other symptoms pointing towards a neurological problem, the owner has to take it to a vet that specializes in reptiles. One can be able to do a physical check on the patient, conduct a diagnostic test to ascertain the problem, and then recommend the appropriate treatment.
In some cases, the fundamental problem that led to the neurological disorder is reversible hence your bearded dragon may be able to live a normal life if the problem is adequately addressed. However, in more severe cases, one may observe neurological disorders that are progressive and consequently, the vet may advise that the pet is made comfortable through other means such as palliative care.
3. Respiratory Infections
Another rather unexpected reason is infections that affect the respiratory systems of the bearded dragons. Some of the infections are respiratory infections and any infection that impacts the lungs and airways is a problem for any bearded dragon who will find it hard to breathe.
Consequently, bearded dragons shake or have muscle contractions due to the lack of enough oxygen in their bodies.
Respiratory infections in bearded dragons can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
– Notably, bacterial infections, including pneumonia or upper respiratory infections.
– This is coupled with; Viral diseases that affect the nervous system for instance inclusion body disease.
– Such factors as substandard amounts of fresh air or erroneous control of the building’s humidity
Symptoms of respiratory infections in bearded dragons may include:
– Shaking or trembling
– wheezing or labored breathing
– Stuffy nose or runny nose
– Open-mouth breathing
– Eating less than what is considered normal or being dull.
If you find that your bearded dragon is shaking along with any of the respiratory signs, it is vital to get your pet to the veterinarian as soon as possible. These lung infections can in fact be very fatal if treatment is delayed and thus it is very important to seek medical help as soon as you observe the symptoms.
Depending on the type and severity of the infection, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral drugs; also, changes in the bearded dragon’s enclosure to increase air circulation and humidity. Indeed, it is good to report that many bearded dragons can be cured of respiratory infections and become healthy if proper treatment is sought.
4. Dehydration
Another shocker that leads to shaking in bearded dragons is dehydration. Dehydration is known to cause a lot of problems including muscle cramps and tremor incidences in a bearded dragon. This is rather frequent in bearded dragons that either do not drink water at all or get the necessary amount of moisture from their diet.
Bearded dragons are naturally found in arid and semi-arid areas and thus, lack swimming abilities as they have adapted to be water-sparing. But in a domesticated setting, they are not always able to get the same amount of intake of water as they would only in the wild. This can lead to a state of dehydration and this person may start to have shaking or trembling.
If your bearded dragon is shaking and you suspect dehydration, there are several steps you can take:
– Make sure that food is always fresh, and stored correctly and that the children are always able to readily access drinkable water.
– Prescribing foodstuffs which contain water such as fresh vegetables and fruits so that the patient can be given water through oral intake.
– Make sure that they spray their pen daily so that they stand a higher chance of getting water.
But if the turning persists and/or the bearded dragon is not as lively as it should be, it is advised to bring the animal to a vet for professional help and potential medication.
5. Stress and Anxiety
Although stress and anxiety are common reasons for bearded dragons to shake, the causes leading to such feelings may be rather bizarre. Stress is a common factor in bearded dragons, and even small alterations to the dragon’s environment or schedule will create tension, and thus, shaking.
Some unexpected sources of stress and anxiety in bearded dragons include:
– Fluctuations in temperature or the specific amount of humidity that is present in their enclosure
– Any loud noise or any form of disturbance in their vicinity
– Contact with people or animals that are strange or unknown
– Insufficient hiding places or the logical lack of space in the territory of their living
– They get exposed to poor lighting or photoperiod which, in simple terms, means that they have either too much light or too little of it.
Bearded dragons are rather sensitive and can get stressed easily when their requirements are not provided. This stress can in turn cause shaking and other behavioral changes like a decrease in appetite, sleep, and /or acting aggressively.
If you see your bearded dragon shaking, and you have an idea that they are stressed or anxious, then, repeat the process to try and find out what might have led to it. This might concern some modifications of their terrarium, reducing exposure to numerous stimuli, or offering more shelters and opportunities for engagements for your bearded dragon to feel safe.
Thus there are certain ways to provide a stress-free and stable environment for your bearded dragon that will help ease the shaking and improve the health of your pet.
6. Metabolic Disorders
Other noninfectious diseases can also cause shaking in bearded dragons: for example, metabolic diseases. These disorders, in a characteristic way, disturb the uptake and utilization of certain nutrients and cause disturbances that become clinically evident through features such as shaking.
Appropriate to this paper, liver disease is a metabolic disorder that might lead to shaking in bearded dragons. Liver disease may affect the metabolic processes within the human body’s productivity, thus resulting in muscle tremors or shaking. Other metabolic disorders like hypo-/hyperthyrosis or renal insufficiency, which are frequent in beardies, may cause shaking too.
Symptoms of metabolic disorders in bearded dragons may include:
– Shaking or trembling
– Fatigue or less activity
– Abnormal changes in the appetite, a problem with weight loss or putting on weight.
– Itching or rash on the skin or scales
– Digestive issues
If you are in doubt that the shaking of your bearded dragon is as a result of metabolic issues, ensure you consult with a vet. The doctor of veterinary medicine can carry out all the relevant tests and checks that are needed to find out what is wrong with the patient and allow for appropriate treatment.
Discussing with the vet the possible changes in diet and supplementation or medication can sort out the shaking problem and at the same time benefit the health of the bearded dragon.
7. Toxin Exposure
This comes as a surprise, but toxins can cause shaking in bearded dragons as well. Smoking, chemicals, or even some pesticides, as well as house cleaning products may hurt your bearded dragon and may cause mus[kle tremors or shaking.
Potential sources of toxin exposure for bearded dragons include:
– Vehicles/transportation, kitchen/bath cleaning products or disinfectants
– Home or garden pesticides also known as insecticides
– Some grasses, or kinds of flowers, which might be poisonous to reptiles
– This encompasses contaminated food or water sources.
If you have recently bought new items or materials for the terrarium of your bearded dragon, then toxin exposure must be considered as the reason for shaking. One should consider withdrawal of the possible toxin and consult with a veterinarian who can help solve this problem.
Your veterinarian might suggest that toxin or contaminant screening be done along with supportive care that might be necessary for the bearded dragon after the exposure.
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Treatment of Shaking in Bearded Dragons
Although the causes of shaking in bearded dragons you have just read might have shocked you, it’s crucial to understand how to correct this condition. Here are some steps you can take:
1. There will also be some shaking therefore observation and documenting will be exercised.
Be very observant of how frequent, how often, and for how long your bearded dragon is shaking as well as the circumstances under which it shivers. Also, observe any behavioral behaviors or modifications of the environment where the child is. The information will attract more attention when consulting with a veterinarian.
2. Evaluate the environment
Check the cage of your bearded dragon critically to be assured the temperatures, humidity, and lights used are appropriate for the animal. And, ensure that there is no possible source of stress or anxiety like noise or objects around the baby that she is not used to.
3. Assess the diet and dehydration
Check the dietary content of the food that you are giving to your bearded dragon and make sure that they get the right dose of balanced calcium and vitamin D3 among others. Also, confirm if they have fresh and clean water, or any other type of beverage; ensure they are taking adequate amounts of fluids.
4. Seek veterinary care
If it does not stop or is combined with other signs, it is necessary to ask for help from a specialist in the treatment of reptiles. They can conduct a thorough assessment, conduct several tests, and arrive at the right diagnosis as well as the right course of action.
5. Follow the veterinarian’s recommendations
Always follow the veterinarian’s recommendations, especially concerning the diet change or the administration of some help in the form of medication or changes in the bearded dragon’s environment. Proper care should be taken all the time to ensure that the problem leading to shaking is well solved.
Thus, the message to be. passed is that shaking in bearded dragons may be the result of various causes and one should be very attentive and cautious about it. If you do not address these causes which lead to shaking, you should be prepared to have a sick bearded dragon on your hands.
Conclusion
Trembling in bearded dragons is annoying to observe and hence, requires an understanding of the unwanted conditions contributing to it. Why Is my Bearded Dragon shaking? While it is true that stress can cause a bearded dragon to shake, there are numerous other reasons, more obscure, why your pet may shake.
Knowing these unpredicted causes and thus their ways of mitigation, one can ensure the needful for your dear pet. Monitoring of this process depends on the diet assessment, water intake, general assessment of the animal’s environment, and consulting a veterinarian when needed. But you can work around this and ensure that your bearded dragon stops shaking and gets back to its happy and healthy self.
It is to say that caring for a bearded dragon entails a readiness to face numerous possible health issues, among which common motivations for shaking may be also included. So here are the multiple things you should be aware of to be able to provide the best living conditions to your pet and have them by your side for a few years.