Metabolic Bone Disease in Bearded Dragons

A bearded dragon maintains a steady volume of calcium in the body. This calcium supply is needed for bone growth and maintenance, and also to react with the phosphorus and vitamin D in the body to perform various other functions. Its all a fine physiological balance.

If the volume drops below a certain amount, then the body begins to draw calcium from the bones making them weak and prone to fracture. Due to the awareness now of bearded dragon owners towards calcium deficiency, some beardies are being overdosed on their calcium supplements causing other issues with calcium metabolism.

There is no single cause of Metabolic Bone Disease, although most causes can be linked with improper bearded dragon care.

• Too little calcium


• Too much calcium


• Incorrect vivarium temperature - too cool a temperature will affect calcium absorption. Bearded dragons need the heat to properly digest their food


• Presence of oxalates in their diet - food such as Kale and Spinach are high in oxalates and can impair the metabolism of calcium. Find out more about what food bearded dragons can eat


• Bananas should not be fed regularly - bananas are rich in phosporous and too much can create an imbalance with the calcium stores
  
• Lack of exposure to UVB - necessary for a bearded dragon to produce their own vitamin D

The symptoms and their severity will depend on the length of time that the condition has developed. Signs and symptoms include;

• Tremors and twitches of the limbs


• Softening of the jaw, lower jaw may also begin to recede


• Weakness


• Lack of appetite


• Lethargy


• Stunted growth


• Paralysis of the limbs (commonly affecting the hind legs with the dragon dragging themselves along the ground)


• Bone fractures

If caught soon enough, your dragon can be treated following the preventative measure below. However if your beardie appears to be severely affected, then they need to be taken to a reptile vet as soon as possible to begin treatment.

Treatment usually comes in the form of oral injections of calcium and vitamin D. Do not treat a bearded dragon yourself without the guidance of a qualified reptile veterinarian. Your beardies life depends on it.

Of course, prevention is always better than cure. Giving your bearded dragon the love and care they deserve should see them clear of most health issues.

• Proper vivarium temperatures - Hot end measuring 90F to 105F and the cool end measuring 75F to 85F


• Exposure to UV lighting - UV bulbs should be replaced every 6-9 months


• Proper day and night cycles


• Balanced diet of calcium and other nutrients


• Adequate enclosure with space to hunt and climb


• Regularly hold your dragon and check them over, look out for a change in behaviour so that any health issues can be spotted early

• Impaction in bearded dragons
  


• Respiratory disease

Disclaimer: I am not a vet and this article does not replace the advice given by a qualified veterinarian. The aim of this article is to bring more awareness of a common health issue to bearded dragon owners.