Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My beardie hasn't gone to the bathroom in almost four days. He has still been eating well and looks bloated. He has been eating mealworms and greens. Does anyone know what I should do? Thanks.

I gave a detailed answer to your question posted on the bearded dragon forum at kingsnake.com so will only give an appreviated version here.

Constipation can be caused by dehydration, improper food items or too large food items (mealworms are not a good stable insects) not giving enough time for digestion before lights out. Injesting substrate (calci-sand, crushed walnut and even washed playsand can cause this) or even parasites.

Several things can be done to help move things along. (note: these won't help much if there is blockage in the intestines. If not too severe it can work, but if it doesn't then surgery may be required)

Offer pureed or finally shredded carrots or squash to the diet (a teaspoon per meal is good). Or vegetiable oil (about a quarter teaspoon fed to the dragon with a fine eye dropper or needleless syringe)

Soaks in luke warm water (about 75-80F) for 10-20 minutes will also help. Very gentle messaging from stomach down towards the vent can also be applied. Keep in mind add very light pressure as too much can injure your dragon.

If none of the above helps after a couple days, take your dragon to a qualified reptile vet. X-rays can be taken to determine if there is an obstruction in the intestines. Most vets will administer a laxative to help move things along, but if that doesn't work, surgery to remove the obstruction will be required.