Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi guys, Need some advice here. 2 days back (we have no reptile vets where I stay) - I lifted my female BD and found her white belly had red blisters all over it...scattered. She looks as if something was biting her all over...tho she was calm and all.

I place her on newspaper, and next day I found red powdery substance on it. I suspected scale rot...so bought an antibacterial treatment drop to place topically over her belly and also to administer orally (1 drop) - this medicine is meant for turtles and tortoises - and recommended by pet shop.

Her condition has improved a little. I also have an Axenohl disinfectant spray which I used on her just now.

Any advice - I did realize her appetite has dropped a little. She's abt 5 months plus.

a picture would be helpful

could be scale rot, burns, heavy mite infestation, fungal issue, or other skin ailment. Keep the cage clean, I suggest plain paper towel instead of newspaper, the ink could be an irritant. Clean the cage after every bowel movement and make sure temperatures are good. Check to make sure the cage isn't too humid, as dampness can cause bacterial problems with bearded dragons. Make sure the basking site is not getting too hot on the surface the light shines on. Remove any under tank heaters that are not on thermostats to control heat (or remove them anyway, not needed for bearded dragons). These could be burning your dragon's belly, if you are using them and the red spots are burns and not scale rot.

If you can get a clear picture, that will be helpful. As i know its hard to take a picture of a dragon's belly...you can always lay him on top of a clear sheet of plexi glass or anti-glare type glass (or don't use the flash of the camera, or shot at an angle so you don't get a big white sphere of reflected flash in the picture. Or have a friend hold your dragon up so you can get a good picture of the belly.
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PHLdyPayne