Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi! Rupert, my 9 month old beardie, just made a noice that sounded like a cough or sneeze. He did it twice. He has never done that before, neither did the other beardie I have known.

I noticed that he had been smaking his lips a lot the last couple of days. I usually give him extra opportunities to drink water when he smacks his lips, but he doen't seem interested in water today.

Any ideas why he might do this? He was snuggled up to my neck at the time, so I didn't see what it looked like. He has been very healthy for the last several months.

Thanks!
Sarah

Any wheezing or bubbling sounds when he breathes? Gaping on inhalation or exhalation? Is he still eating well?

Something simply could have irritated him, nothing more.

Or he could have a respiratory bug. Just keep an eye and an ear on him. If he seems to be gaping or gasping a lot or you hear more sneeze/coughs or wheezing, up his basking temps a few degrees (and add some lightless heat at night if you can)and make a vet appointment. Keep him hydrated by soaking if he won't drink--particularly important if he does have a respiratory infection and ultra-important if he should require any antibiotics (Also important if an animal requires antibiotics is supplementation with probiotics to keep its gut flora healthy).
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