Reptile & Amphibian Forums

OK OK I know Im probably driving you guys nuts.... but my little guy is about 3 days old now and is showing no improvement. He very rarely opens his eyes and rarely moves at all. He will not eat anything and I am starting to really worry. This being my first hatchling i really dont want to lose him. Is there anything i can do? How long is it safe to wait for him to take matters into his own hands before I try to force feed him? And for that matter will force feeding him kill him? Please help!

what have you done with him so far? Is he still in the incubator, or in his own cage with basking lights and uvb lights? If not in a cage already, put him into one and let him bask. Mist him lightly to ensure he keeps hydrated. I deffinitely wouldn't recommend force feeding him for a few more days yet, as most baby bearded dragons don't eat in the first 3-7 days after hatching. However do keep in mind some hatchlings won't thrive no matter what you do, either due to genetic defects or just being too weak to start with. Though sad, there isn't really anything you can do to get them started.

If you really want to try everything possible, you can take him to a vet for inspection if he isn't eating on his own in another couple days.
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PHLdyPayne

He is in his own cage with lights. I mist him several times a day and have offered him cold crickets and tiny greens. He moves very little and rarely has his eyes open. the one time that he took any notice of the cricket was for him to run in the other direction. I guess i will keep my fingers crossed for a few more days and then if nothing i will take him to a vet and see if i can save him
thanks