It’s common for bearded dragons to be less active at certain times, but a lethargic dragon can be cause for concern. Here are some potential reasons your bearded dragon may not be moving around as much and what you can do about it.
Brumation
One of the most common reasons for decreased activity in bearded dragons is brumation. Brumation is similar to hibernation in mammals and is an adaptive strategy to survive colder months when food is scarce. Here are some key points about brumation in bearded dragons:
- Most common in adult dragons over 1 year old
- Typically happens in late fall/early winter when temperatures drop and day length decreases
- Bearded dragons will sleep more, eat less, and be less active
- Can last 4-6 weeks or longer
- Normal seasonal behavior – not a cause for concern
To determine if brumation is the cause, look for these signs:
- Gradual decrease in appetite and activity over weeks
- Sleeping more than normal
- Cooler body temperature
- No other signs of illness present
If your bearded dragon is brumating, monitor its weight and hydration status, but otherwise allow the brumation to run its course. Make sure the habitat temperature does not drop too low (65-75°F on the cool end is ideal). Appetite and activity should return when weather warms up.
Stress
Stress can also cause lethargy and lack of appetite in bearded dragons. Potential stressors include:
- Inadequate habitat/enclosure
- Incorrect temperatures
- Insufficient UVB lighting
- Lack of proper hide/basking areas
- Minimal enrichment/handling
- Excess noise/activity near enclosure
- New environment
- Change in social grouping
Look for any changes in the habitat or household that could be causing stress. Ensure the enclosure meets minimum size guidelines (adult dragons need at least a 40 gallon tank), and double check that temperatures and lighting are within proper ranges. Also make sure the dragon has sufficient hides, climbing surfaces, and mental stimulation.
Minimizing external stressors and sticking to a consistent daily routine can help alleviate stress. Spending more time interacting with your dragon may also be beneficial.
Pain or Injury
Bearded dragons that are injured or in pain will often show decreased activity to avoid aggravating injuries. Possible causes include:
- Broken bones or sprains from falls
- Tail or toe injuries
- Mouth/jaw injuries from live prey
- Cuts, abrasions, or stuck shed
- Metabolic bone disease
- Infections or abscesses
- Impaction or blockage
Carefully inspect your dragon’s entire body including the underside, tail, and mouth. Look for any swelling, abnormal bending of limbs, cuts, stuck shed, or other signs of injury. Also check for discharged pus, reddened areas, or abscesses which indicate infection. Gentle palpation of their abdomen can reveal impactions.
See an exotic vet if injury or illness is suspected for proper diagnosis and treatment. Restrict activity, separate cage furnishings, and use soft bedding in the meantime to allow rest and recovery.
Parasites
Internal parasites like worms or protozoa can sap a bearded dragon’s energy and make them lethargic. Possible symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite/weight loss
- Frequent passing of stool
- Abnormal stool consistency
- Swollen abdomen
Have a fecal exam done by your vet to check for parasite eggs. If present, the vet will prescribe anti-parasitic medication. Also thoroughly disinfect the habitat to eliminate parasite transmission. Preventative measures include freezing or cooking feeder insects before feeding them to your dragon to kill potential parasites.
Respiratory Infection
Respiratory infections are a common health problem in bearded dragons. Symptoms can include:
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Labored breathing or wheezing
- Mucus discharge from nose/mouth
- Keeping mouth open for extended time
Infections are often caused by unsanitary cage conditions, low temperatures, or stress weakening the immune system. Seek veterinary care for evaluation, diagnosis, and antibiotic medication. Improve husbandry and thoroughly disinfect the enclosure to resolve underlying causes.
Metabolic Bone Disease
Metabolic bone disease (MBD) occurs when bearded dragons lack proper calcium or vitamin D3. It causes weakened, deformed bones and subsequent pain and difficulty moving. Warning signs include:
- Hesitant to move, especially back legs
- Uneven/awkward gait
- Swollen limbs
- Twisted legs
- Bent spine/tail
- Malformed jaw
MBD is prevented through proper calcium and UVB lighting. Treatment includes calcium and vitamin supplements, possible injections, and pain management. Check your lighting, supplements, and husbandry if MBD is suspected.
Old Age
Aging bearded dragons tend to slow down, sleep more, and become less mobile. Lack of appetite and activity is common in geriatric dragons. Signs of old age include:
- Over 5-8 years old
- Gradual decrease in activity over time
- No signs of illness/inadequate husbandry
- May have graying beard/nails
- No other symptoms present
Ensure husbandry and diet for older dragons is optimal. Provide accessibility ramps, softened substrate, and food within easy reach. Checkups with an exotic vet can monitor age-related health issues. Enjoy your dragon’s more mellow personality!
Improper Temperatures
Since bearded dragons are cold-blooded, their body temperature and activity levels depend on external heat sources. Temperatures that are too hot or cold lead to lethargy. Ideal temperature ranges are:
- Basking spot: 95-110°F
- Warm side: 80-90°F
- Cool side: 70-80°F
- Nighttime: 65-75°F
Use under tank heat pads, ceramic heat emitters, and incandescent basking bulbs to maintain proper heat gradients. Always provide a cool end temperature in the 70s for reptiles to self-regulate. Monitor temperatures daily with a digital thermometer.
Insufficient UVB
Bearded dragons require UVB light for vitamin D3 synthesis and calcium absorption. Without UVB, they can suffer from metabolic bone disease and become lethargic. Signs of insufficient UVB include:
- Decreased appetite and activity
- Failure to thrive and grow
- Bent/twisted limbs
- Soft jaws/skeleton
Use a UVB bulb specifically for reptiles, rated at least 10% output. Replace bulbs every 6 months, as UVB decreases over time. Position bulbs within recommended distance from basking area for maximum exposure.
Tank Too Small
An enclosure that is too small can cause chronic stress and inactivity in bearded dragons. Adult dragons need a minimum tank size of:
- 36 x 18 x 18 inches (75 gallons)
- Larger is always better
Upgrade to a larger tank or enclosure if possible. Provide ample floor space for movement and add climbing branches, hammocks, and platforms to utilize vertical space. Allow outside-cage time for exercise if your bearded dragon seems cramped.
Brumation or Lethargy?
It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish brumation from lethargy caused by illness or stress. Here are some guidelines:
| Brumation | Lethargy |
|---|---|
| Gradual onset over weeks | Sudden decrease in activity |
| Beginning in fall/winter | Any time of year |
| Normal appetite preceding brumation | Loss of appetite prior to lethargy |
| No other symptoms present | Other symptoms may be present |
| Returns to normal with warmer weather | Persists despite environmental changes |
If ever in doubt, consult your exotic vet for an examination to accurately diagnose the cause of lethargy.
When to See the Vet
Schedule a veterinary visit if your bearded dragon shows:
- Sudden lethargy with no signs of brumation
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Labored breathing
- Discharge from nose or eyes
- Injuries, swelling, or limb deformities
- Strained or infrequent bowel movements
- Abnormal urate color
- Unusual basking or temperature regulation
- No improvement despite habitat changes
A qualified reptile vet can run diagnostic tests and provide appropriate treatment when a medical issue is the cause of lethargy or inactivity.
Tips for an Active Dragon
Here are some tips to encourage activity and engagement:
- Provide an adequately sized enclosure with ample space
- Add climbing branches, hammocks, rocks, vines and other decor
- Create a temperature gradient from warm to cool
- Use proper heating and UVB lighting
- Give baths and mist regularly for hydration
- Offer a varied diet with greens, vegetables, and insects
- Provide calcium + D3 and multivitamin supplements
- Minimize external stressors and distractions
- Establish a consistent daily routine and schedule
- Interact with your bearded dragon frequently
- Allow supervised exercise outside of the enclosure
- Use treat sticks to encourage natural foraging
- Add puzzles, mazes, or feeder balls for mental enrichment
With attentive care and husbandry, your bearded dragon can live an active, healthy life for years to come!