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Megan
Wed, Aug 14, 2024
Diarrhea

I’m unsure about my bearded dragons stool. It’s dark brown, somewhat solid. The urate isn’t chalky. I think there is a chance he could just be overly hydrated. The poop is formed but kind of mushy, maybe mucousy, and there is a lot of what looks like pee. There are none of the alarming colors that I have read to look for. So that’s promising. Just hoping to get advice and hopefully figure out what I could be doing wrong… It also looks slightly like his greens aren’t fully digested.


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Dr. Choe
Dr.Tail Vet

It sounds like your bearded dragon's stool is somewhat concerning but not immediately alarming. Let's go over a few things you can consider and steps you can take to address this issue.

First, let's talk about diet. It's essential to ensure that your bearded dragon is eating a balanced diet. Overhydration can occur if they are consuming too many water-rich vegetables. Try offering a variety of greens and vegetables, making sure they are finely chopped to aid digestion. It's also a good idea to avoid feeding too much fruit, as it can cause loose stools.

Next, consider hydration. While it's important for your bearded dragon to stay hydrated, be mindful of the water content in their diet. If you suspect overhydration, you can reduce the frequency of misting or soaking.

Temperature and lighting are also crucial for proper digestion. Ensure that the basking spot in the enclosure is around 95-110°F and that there is a gradient so your bearded dragon can regulate its body temperature effectively.

Parasites can sometimes cause changes in stool consistency, even if other symptoms are not present. A fecal exam by a veterinarian can help rule this out.

Stress can also lead to digestive issues. Make sure your bearded dragon's habitat is stable and stress-free, as changes in environment or routine can sometimes cause problems.

Continue to monitor the stool closely. If it remains mushy or mucousy, or if you notice any other symptoms like lethargy, weight loss, or a decrease in appetite, it would be wise to consult a veterinarian.

Since the stool is not showing alarming colors and your bearded dragon seems otherwise healthy, these adjustments and observations should help. However, if the condition persists or worsens, a veterinary visit would be the next step to ensure there are no underlying health issues.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you.