Bearded Dragon Not Eating: Causes, Husbandry Checks, and Veterinary Red Flags

A bearded dragon that stops eating is one of the most common and concerning presentations in reptile practice. Anorexia (loss of appetite) is never normal in this species and often signals an underlying medical or environmental problem that requires prompt attention. A retrospective study of 242 bearded dragons presented for emergency evaluation found that anorexia was reported in 97 of 242 cases (40%), and lethargy in 109 of 242 (45%). Notably, dragons presenting with anorexia were significantly less likely to survive to discharge (odds ratio 2.36), and those with an anorexia of unknown cause had an even higher mortality risk (odds ratio 2.79) [10]. These figures underscore why a bearded dragon not eating should never be dismissed as a temporary quirk.

This article provides a definitive, evidence-based guide for veterinary professionals and dedicated owners. It covers the differential diagnosis of reptile anorexia in bearded dragons, systematic husbandry checks, diagnostic approaches, and clear red flags that warrant immediate veterinary intervention. The goal is to help clinicians and caregivers distinguish between correctable environmental issues and life-threatening diseases.

Veterinary Disclaimer: This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. If your bearded dragon has stopped eating for more than 24 to 48 hours, or shows any red flag signs, consult a veterinarian experienced in reptile medicine.

At a Glance: Triage Decision Table for a Bearded Dragon Not Eating

The following table provides a rapid clinical framework for triaging a bearded dragon with anorexia. It is not a substitute for a full veterinary examination.

Understanding the Bearded Dragon Digestive System and Appetite Regulation

To understand why a bearded dragon stops eating, it helps to appreciate their unique physiology. Bearded dragons are ectothermic (cold-blooded) reptiles that rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Digestion in particular is highly temperature-dependent. A bearded dragon requires a basking surface temperature of approximately 35 to 42 degrees Celsius (95 to 108 degrees Fahrenheit) to achieve the preferred body temperature for enzymatic digestion. If the basking spot is too cool, gut motility slows, and the dragon may refuse food as a protective mechanism to avoid putrefaction of ingesta in the gastrointestinal tract.

The bearded dragon genome has been fully sequenced, revealing 6 macrochromosomes and 10 microchromosomes, including the Z and W sex chromosomes [12][17]. This genetic understanding has advanced research into sex determination and developmental biology, but it also highlights the complexity of this species. Their endocrine system, including thyroid and adrenal function, influences appetite, though specific research on appetite-regulating hormones in bearded dragons is limited.

The oral cavity and esophagus are adapted for whole-prey consumption. Bearded dragons have acrodont teeth (attached to the surface of the jawbone) that are not replaced if lost, making dental health important for feeding. Stomatitis (mouth rot) can cause pain that leads to anorexia.

The gastrointestinal tract is relatively simple compared to mammals. The stomach produces hydrochloric acid and pepsinogen for protein digestion. The small intestine is the primary site of nutrient absorption. The large intestine and cecum house a microbial population that aids in fermentation of plant material. Impaction or obstruction at any level can cause anorexia.

Causes of Anorexia in Bearded Dragons

The causes of a bearded dragon not eating span a wide spectrum, from easily correctable husbandry errors to fatal systemic diseases. The differential diagnosis can be organized into environmental, infectious, metabolic/nutritional, neoplastic, reproductive, and behavioral categories.

Environmental and Husbandry Causes

Inadequate husbandry is the most common cause of transient anorexia in bearded dragons. Even experienced keepers can overlook subtle deficiencies.

Inadequate Basking Temperature. The single most common husbandry error is an incorrect thermal gradient. The basking surface temperature must be measured with a digital temperature gun or probe thermometer, not a stick-on dial. If the basking spot is below 32 degrees Celsius (90 degrees Fahrenheit), digestion will be impaired. If it exceeds 46 degrees Celsius (115 degrees Fahrenheit), the dragon may avoid the area due to thermal stress.

Insufficient UVB Lighting. Bearded dragons require UVB light with a wavelength of 290 to 320 nm (UVB) for cutaneous synthesis of vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption. Without adequate UVB, they develop hypocalcemia and metabolic bone disease (MBD). Anorexia is an early sign of MBD. UVB bulbs lose output over time and should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, even if they still emit visible light. The bulb should be placed within 30 to 45 cm (12 to 18 inches) of the basking spot, with no glass or plastic filtering the UVB.

Inappropriate Photoperiod. Bearded dragons need a consistent day-night cycle of approximately 12 to 14 hours of light and 10 to 12 hours of darkness. Constant light or constant darkness disrupts circadian rhythms and can suppress appetite.

Stress from Handling or Overcrowding. Research has shown that handling bearded dragons, even gently, can increase anxiety-related behaviors. In a controlled study, dragons handled for 5 or 15 minutes showed more frequent tongue flicking in a novel environment and spent less time near a novel object, suggesting increased anxiety [6]. While this study did not directly measure appetite, chronic stress is a known cause of anorexia in reptiles. Overcrowding, cohabitation with aggressive individuals, or frequent enclosure changes can also induce stress.

Substrate Ingestion and Impaction. Bearded dragons may ingest loose substrates such as sand, wood chips, or crushed walnut shells. Impaction can cause gastrointestinal blockage and anorexia. A case report described a 12-year-old female bearded dragon that presented with constipation after consuming sand. A 4 cm bile duct cyst was later found, but the initial anorexia was attributed to the sand impaction [8].

Inappropriate Humidity. Bearded dragons are native to arid regions of Australia. Humidity levels above 60% can predispose them to respiratory infections and skin problems. Humidity below 20% can cause dehydration and shedding difficulties, both of which can reduce appetite.

Infectious Causes

Infectious diseases are a major cause of persistent anorexia in bearded dragons. Viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic pathogens can all suppress appetite.

Adenovirus (Agamid Adenovirus 1 and Helodermatid Adenovirus 2). Adenoviruses are among the most important viral pathogens in bearded dragons. Agamid adenovirus 1 (AgAdV-1) is associated with hepatitis, enteritis, and immunosuppression. A case series described a 2-month-old juvenile with anorexia and cachexia; fecal analysis revealed high numbers of Isospora amphiboluri and pinworm eggs. The dragon died despite supportive care. A third dragon from the same cage was euthanized, and histology revealed intestinal coccidiosis, basophilic intranuclear inclusions (compatible with adenovirus), acute hepatic necrosis with microsporidia, and renal gout. PCR confirmed agamid adenovirus 1, and sequencing showed 100% identity to the known genome [3].

Helodermatid adenovirus 2 (HeAdV2) was identified in a 4-year-old captive male bearded dragon that presented with recurrent episodic dyspnea and anorexia. Despite antimicrobial therapy, the animal died. Histology revealed heterophilic and lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia with intranuclear inclusions. Electron microscopy showed 80 nm nonenveloped hexagonal viral particles. HeAdV2 was confirmed by PCR [2].

Mycoplasma. A novel Mycoplasma species, provisionally named Mycoplasma pogonae, was detected in the same dragon with HeAdV2 pneumonia. The significance of the mycoplasma was indeterminate, but coinfection may have exacerbated disease [2].

Microsporidia (Encephalitozoon pogonae and Encephalitozoon cuniculi). Microsporidia are emerging pathogens in bearded dragons. Encephalitozoon pogonae causes systemic granulomatous inflammation and vasculitis. A 6-month-old juvenile presented with unilateral blepharoconjunctivitis and anorexia. Despite treatment with topical ofloxacin, systemic meloxicam, and ceftazidime, the dragon died from hemopericardium. Necropsy showed severe granulomatous inflammation in the liver, intestines, and ocular structures. PCR confirmed E. pogonae in both liver and conjunctiva [16].

Encephalitozoon cuniculi has also been identified in bearded dragons. In the adenovirus case described above, PCR for E. cuniculi was positive, and sequencing revealed 100% identity to an E. cuniculi-like organism previously found in bearded dragons [3].

Coccidia (Isospora amphiboluri). Coccidiosis is common in juvenile bearded dragons and can cause anorexia, diarrhea, and weight loss. In the adenovirus case, high quantities of Isospora amphiboluri were found in the feces [3]. Coccidiosis is often secondary to immunosuppression from viral infection or poor husbandry.

Nannizziopsis guarroi (Yellow Fungus Disease). Nannizziopsis guarroi causes dermatomycosis in lizards and snakes. The fungus can be present in the environment before clinical lesions develop. In an experimental study, 4 of 6 enclosures (66.67%) demonstrated environmental presence of viable N. guarroi 7 to 28 days prior to lesion development in the housed dragon [9]. Anorexia may precede visible skin lesions.

Bacterial Infections. Bacterial pneumonia, stomatitis, and septicemia can cause anorexia. Salmonella species are commensal in the reptile gastrointestinal tract but can cause systemic disease in stressed or immunocompromised animals. Salmonella is also a zoonotic concern; certain serotypes (Cotham, Chester, Tennessee) are closely associated with bearded dragons [11].

Parasitic Infections. Strongyloides species can cause proliferative enteritis and anorexia in reptiles. While the primary report involved colubrid snakes, the parasite is relevant to bearded dragons kept in mixed collections or with poor hygiene [19]. Amoebiasis (Entamoeba invadens) causes nonspecific signs including diarrhea, anorexia, and lethargy, and frequently results in acute death. A retrospective study found amoebiasis as the cause of death in 7 lizards, including bearded dragons [20].

Metabolic and Nutritional Causes

Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD). MBD is a syndrome of nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism caused by calcium deficiency, vitamin D3 deficiency, or an inverted calcium:phosphorus ratio in the diet. Anorexia is an early sign. Radiographs may reveal pathologic fractures, as seen in a 5-year-old dragon with a traumatic tail fracture and multifocal chronic fractures with callus formation [1].

Hypocalcemia. Low ionized calcium can cause muscle weakness, tremors, and anorexia. It is often associated with MBD but can occur independently.

Renal Disease and Gout. Renal disease can lead to anorexia, lethargy, and coelomic effusion. Gout (deposition of uric acid crystals in joints or viscera) is painful and suppresses appetite. In the adenovirus case, renal gout was noted on histology [3].

Hepatic Disease. Hepatopathy from toxins, infection, or neoplasia can cause anorexia. Bile duct cysts and cholangiocarcinoma have been reported in bearded dragons [8][15].

Neoplastic Causes

Neoplasia is an underrecognized cause of chronic anorexia in bearded dragons. Several tumor types have been documented.

Gastric Neuroendocrine Carcinoma. A 2.5-year-old inland bearded dragon presented with chronic anorexia, weight loss, depression, and acute melena. Necropsy revealed a metastatic gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma that expressed somatostatin. The tumor invaded through the gastric mucosa and metastasized to the liver [5].

Leukemia and Lymphoma. Chronic monocytic leukemia was diagnosed in a 4.5-year-old male bearded dragon presenting with lethargy, anorexia, and increased mucoid salivation. Chemotherapy with cytosine arabinoside was attempted, but the dragon died 44 hours into treatment [4]. More recently, systemic CD3+ T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia was described in a 3-year-old male that suddenly stopped eating. Blood tests revealed white blood cell and protein abnormalities suggestive of leukemia. Despite treatment with corticosteroids, antibiotics, and oral chemotherapy, the dragon deteriorated and died. Necropsy revealed severe infiltration of internal organs, particularly the lungs, by abnormal lymphocytes [7].

Cholangiocarcinoma. A 7-year-old male bearded dragon had an incidental coelomic opacity on routine examination. Surgical excision of a cystic liver mass confirmed cholangiocarcinoma. The dragon recovered and remained disease-free 10 months postoperatively [15].

Cystic Rete Testis. An 11-year-old male presented with a coelomic mass but no other clinical signs. A 6 cm cystic rete testis was surgically excised. While not directly causing anorexia, such masses can cause mechanical compression and reduced appetite [18].

Reproductive Causes

Female bearded dragons can become reproductively active even without a male. Dystocia (egg binding), follicular stasis, and preovulatory stasis can cause anorexia, coelomic distension, and lethargy. A retrospective study found that females more often presented with coelomic distension (12 of 100) and were diagnosed with reproductive disease (11 of 100) [10].

Behavioral and Age-Related Causes

Brumation. Bearded dragons may undergo a period of reduced activity and appetite during cooler months, known as brumation. This is a natural phenomenon, but it should only be diagnosed after ruling out medical causes. A healthy dragon in brumation will still drink water and may eat small amounts. Prolonged anorexia without weight loss or other signs may be brumation.

Stress. As noted, handling and environmental changes can increase anxiety [6]. Relocation to a new enclosure or introduction of new animals can trigger stress anorexia.

Age. Juvenile dragons are growing rapidly and have high metabolic demands. Anorexia in a juvenile is more concerning than in an adult, as they have fewer energy reserves.

Husbandry Checklist: The First Step in Evaluation

Before assuming a medical cause, a thorough husbandry review is essential. The following checklist covers the critical parameters.

Note on UVB: Many owners mistakenly believe that a "UVB" bulb that emits visible light is still effective. UVB output declines over time. A UVB meter can confirm output, but the simplest approach is to replace the bulb every 6 to 12 months according to manufacturer recommendations.

Veterinary Diagnostic Approach

When a bearded dragon presents for anorexia, the veterinarian should follow a systematic diagnostic plan.

History and Signalment

Obtain a detailed history including:

• Duration of anorexia
• Last normal meal and type of food offered
• Any vomiting, regurgitation, or diarrhea (or diarrhoea)
• Changes in fecal output or character
• Lethargy, hiding, or other behavioral changes
• Recent handling, enclosure changes, or new additions
• Husbandry details: temperature, UVB, substrate, supplements
• Previous medical history and treatments

Signalment is important. Young dragons are more prone to adenovirus and coccidiosis. Older dragons are more likely to have neoplasia or reproductive disease. Females are at risk for reproductive disorders [10].

Physical Examination

Perform a thorough physical examination in a warm, quiet environment.

• Assess body condition score (BCS). Poor body condition is associated with nonsurvival (odds ratio 3.94) [10].
• Palpate the coelom for masses, distension, or pain.
• Examine the oral cavity for stomatitis, dental disease, or discharge.
• Auscultate the lungs (though difficult in reptiles; listen for crackles or wheezes).
• Examine the eyes for blepharoconjunctivitis, cataracts, or uveitis (see [16]).
• Check the skin for dysecdysis (retained shed), lesions, or fungal plaques.
• Evaluate the cloaca for prolapse or discharge.

Diagnostic Tests

Fecal Examination. A fresh fecal sample should be examined by direct smear and fecal flotation. Look for coccidia (Isospora amphiboluri), pinworm eggs, Strongyloides larvae, and amoebae. Fecal PCR can detect specific pathogens.

Blood Work. A complete blood count (CBC) and plasma biochemistry panel are essential. Look for:

• Leukocytosis (suggesting infection or inflammation). In the tail fracture case, marked leukocytosis and lymphocytosis were noted [1].
• Monocytosis, heterophilia, and lymphocytosis (suggesting leukemia) [4][7].
• Elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (suggesting liver or muscle damage) [13].
• Hyperuricemia (suggesting renal disease or gout).
• Hypocalcemia (suggesting MBD or renal disease).

Radiography. Whole-body radiographs (dorsoventral and lateral views) can reveal:

• Pathologic fractures (MBD) [1].
• Coelomic masses or organomegaly.
• Egg binding or follicular stasis.
• Pulmonary infiltrates (pneumonia) [2].
• Sand or substrate impaction.

Ultrasonography. Ultrasound is useful for evaluating the liver, kidneys, gonads, and coelomic masses. It can differentiate cystic from solid masses. In the bile duct cyst case, ultrasound revealed a 4 cm cyst [8]. Ocular high-frequency ultrasound (48 MHz) can detect intraocular lesions [16].

Advanced Imaging. Computed tomography (CT) provides detailed three-dimensional anatomy and is superior for evaluating bone, lung, and coelomic structures. CT was used in the bile duct cyst case [8].

PCR Testing. PCR panels are available for:

• Agamid adenovirus 1 and Helodermatid adenovirus 2
• Encephalitozoon pogonae and E. cuniculi
• Mycoplasma species
• Nannizziopsis guarroi
• Salmonella species

PCR should be performed on appropriate samples (blood, feces, swabs, or tissue).

Histopathology. Biopsy or necropsy with histopathology is the gold standard for diagnosing neoplasia, microsporidiosis, and adenovirus infection. Immunohistochemistry can characterize tumors (e.g., somatostatin expression in neuroendocrine carcinoma [5]; pankeratin positivity in cholangiocarcinoma [15]).

Evidence-Based Management

Management depends on the underlying cause. The following sections outline treatment approaches for common diagnoses.

Husbandry Correction

If the history reveals a husbandry deficiency, correct it immediately. Adjust basking temperature, replace UVB bulbs, improve diet, and reduce stress. Many dragons will resume eating within 24 to 48 hours after correction.

Supportive Care

Regardless of the cause, supportive care is often necessary.

• Fluid therapy: Subcutaneous or intracoelomic fluids (e.g., 2.5% dextrose in 0.45% saline, or lactated Ringer's solution) at 10-20 mL/kg per day.
• Nutritional support: If the dragon is not eating, assist-feeding with a commercial reptile recovery diet (e.g., Oxbow Critical Care for Herbivores or Emeraid Omnivore) may be necessary. Tube feeding should be performed by a veterinarian.
• Thermal support: Maintain optimal basking temperature to support metabolism and immune function.

Infectious Disease Treatment

Adenovirus. No specific antiviral treatment is available. Supportive care and prevention of secondary infections are the mainstays. Isolation of affected animals is critical.

Mycoplasma. Treatment with macrolide antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin 10 mg/kg orally every 24-48 hours) or fluoroquinolones (e.g., enrofloxacin 5-10 mg/kg intramuscularly every 24 hours) may be attempted, but efficacy is variable [2].

Microsporidia. Treatment is challenging. Fenbendazole (20-50 mg/kg orally every 24 hours for 3-5 days) or albendazole (10-20 mg/kg orally every 24 hours) may be used, but resistance is common. In the E. pogonae case, treatment was unsuccessful [16].

Coccidia. Toltrazuril (10-25 mg/kg orally every 24-48 hours for 2-3 doses) or ponazuril (10-20 mg/kg orally every 24 hours for 2-3 days) is effective.

Nannizziopsis guarroi. Treatment requires systemic antifungal therapy (e.g., voriconazole 10 mg/kg orally every 24 hours, or terbinafine 10-20 mg/kg orally every 24 hours) combined with topical therapy and environmental decontamination. The fungus can persist in the environment [9].

Bacterial Infections. Culture and sensitivity testing should guide antibiotic selection. Ceftazidime (20 mg/kg intramuscularly every 72 hours) is commonly used [4]. Enrofloxacin and amikacin are also options but carry renal risk.

Parasitic Infections. Fenbendazole (50 mg/kg orally every 24 hours for 3 days) is effective for nematodes. Metronidazole (50 mg/kg orally every 24 hours for 3-5 days) is used for amoebiasis.

Neoplastic Disease Treatment

Treatment of neoplasia in bearded dragons is challenging and often palliative.

• Leukemia/Lymphoma: Chemotherapy with cytosine arabinoside, corticosteroids, and oral chemotherapeutic agents has been attempted but with poor outcomes [4][7].
• Cholangiocarcinoma: Surgical excision can be curative if the tumor is localized. The 7-year-old dragon with cholangiocarcinoma remained disease-free 10 months after surgery [15].
• Gastric Neuroendocrine Carcinoma: This tumor is aggressive and metastatic at diagnosis; treatment is rarely successful [5].
• Cystic Rete Testis: Surgical excision is curative [18].

Reproductive Disease

Dystocia and follicular stasis may require medical therapy (oxytocin, calcium gluconate) or surgical intervention (ovariohysterectomy).

Unsafe Home Remedies and Misconceptions

Several well-intentioned but dangerous practices should be avoided.

• Force-feeding without veterinary guidance: Aspiration pneumonia is a real risk. Tube feeding should be performed by a veterinarian or trained technician.
• Using over-the-counter "appetite stimulants": Many products sold for mammals are untested in reptiles and may be toxic.
• Bathing in "electrolyte" solutions: While soaking can help with hydration, adding sugar or salt solutions can cause electrolyte imbalances.
• Using human medications: Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and other human drugs are toxic to reptiles.
• Increasing heat excessively: Temperatures above 46°C (115°F) can cause thermal burns and death.

Prognosis

The prognosis for a bearded dragon not eating depends entirely on the underlying cause. In the retrospective emergency study, 57.9% of bearded dragons survived to discharge. Nonsurvival was significantly associated with lethargy, anorexia, poor body condition, coelomic effusion, and a diagnosis of anorexia of unknown cause or lethargy of unknown cause [10].

For specific conditions:

• Husbandry-related anorexia: Excellent prognosis if corrected early.
• Adenovirus: Guarded to poor, especially in juveniles.
• Microsporidiosis: Poor, as treatment is often ineffective [16].
• Neoplasia: Guarded to poor, except for surgically resectable tumors [15].
• Reproductive disease: Good if treated early with surgery.

Prevention

Prevention is the best approach to avoid anorexia in bearded dragons.

1. Optimal husbandry: Maintain correct temperature gradient, UVB, photoperiod, and humidity. Use the husbandry checklist above.
2. Proper diet: Offer a varied diet of appropriately sized insects and fresh greens. Dust insects with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements.
3. Regular veterinary checkups: Annual wellness exams with fecal testing and blood work can detect early disease.
4. Quarantine: New animals should be quarantined for at least 30 to 60 days before introduction to an existing collection.
5. Reduce stress: Minimize handling, provide hiding spots, and avoid frequent enclosure changes [6].
6. Hygiene: Clean and disinfect the enclosure regularly. Remove feces promptly. Avoid loose substrates that can be ingested.

Veterinary Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Care

The following signs indicate a need for immediate veterinary evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long can a bearded dragon go without eating before it becomes an emergency?

A healthy adult bearded dragon can go without food for 1 to 2 weeks, but any anorexia lasting more than 48 hours warrants investigation. Juveniles have fewer energy reserves and should be evaluated sooner. The retrospective study found that anorexia was a significant predictor of nonsurvival [10].

2. Can stress cause a bearded dragon to stop eating?

Yes, stress is a common cause of transient anorexia. Handling, even gentle handling, has been shown to increase anxiety-related behaviors in bearded dragons [6]. Enclosure changes, new animals, loud noises, and excessive handling can all suppress appetite.

3. What are the most common husbandry mistakes that cause anorexia?

The most common mistakes are incorrect basking temperature (too cool or too hot), insufficient UVB output, and an improper photoperiod. Many owners use stick-on thermometers that are inaccurate. A digital temperature gun is essential for measuring basking surface temperature.

4. How do I know if my bearded dragon is brumating versus sick?

Brumation typically occurs during cooler months and is characterized by reduced activity, hiding, and decreased appetite. However, a brumating dragon should still drink water and may eat small amounts. If there is weight loss, lethargy, or any other red flag signs, assume illness until proven otherwise. A veterinary checkup is recommended before assuming brumation.

5. What is the most common infectious cause of anorexia in juvenile bearded dragons?

Adenovirus (agamid adenovirus 1) is a common cause of anorexia, cachexia, and death in juvenile bearded dragons. It is often accompanied by secondary infections such as coccidiosis or microsporidiosis [3].

6. Can a bearded dragon stop eating due to impaction?

Yes, impaction from ingested substrate (sand, wood chips) or foreign bodies can cause gastrointestinal blockage and anorexia. A 12-year-old dragon presented with constipation after consuming sand, and a bile duct cyst was later found [8]. Impaction requires veterinary diagnosis and treatment.

7. What diagnostic tests will my veterinarian perform for an anorexic bearded dragon?

The veterinarian will start with a thorough history and physical examination. Recommended tests include a fecal examination (direct smear and flotation), complete blood count, plasma biochemistry panel, and radiographs. Depending on findings, additional tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, PCR for specific pathogens, or biopsy may be recommended.

8. Is it safe to force-feed my bearded dragon at home?

No. Force-feeding at home carries a high risk of aspiration pneumonia, esophageal trauma, and stress. If your dragon needs nutritional support, a veterinarian should perform tube feeding or demonstrate the technique. Commercial recovery diets are available but should be used under veterinary guidance.

Related Veterinary Guides

• Reptile Anorexia: A Systematic Approach to Diagnosis
• Bearded Dragon Husbandry: The Complete Veterinary Guide
• Metabolic Bone Disease in Reptiles: Recognition and Management
• Adenovirus in Bearded Dragons: Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis
• Emergency Triage of the Anorexic Reptile
• Zoonotic Diseases from Reptiles: A Guide for Veterinary Teams

References

[1] Julia Gatto, Kaitlyn Crocker, Julianne E McCready et al. Use of Neuraxial Anesthesia for Tail Amputation in a Sedated Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps). Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery. 2025. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/e3c03bbfaf4be4c23936476bdbae415dd6474571

[2] Crossland NA, DiGeronimo PM, Sokolova Y et al. Pneumonia in a Captive Central Bearded Dragon With Concurrent Detection of Helodermatid Adenovirus 2 and a Novel Mycoplasma Species. Vet Pathol. 2018. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29940815/

[3] Schilliger L, Mentré V, Marschang RE et al. Triple infection with agamid adenovirus 1, Encephaliton cuniculi-like microsporidium and enteric coccidia in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps). Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere. 2016. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27385082/

[4] Jankowski G, Sirninger J, Borne J et al. Chemotherapeutic treatment for leukemia in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps). J Zoo Wildl Med. 2011. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22946414/

[5] Lyons JA, Newman SJ, Greenacre CB et al. A gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma expressing somatostatin in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps). J Vet Diagn Invest. 2010. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20224102/

[6] Stockley VR, Wilkinson A, Burman OHP. How to Handle Your Dragon: Does Handling Duration Affect the Behaviour of Bearded Dragons (Pogona Vitticeps)?. Animals (Basel). 2020. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33203165/

[7] Josip Miljković, Anouk Jonker, D. Đuričić et al. Systemic CD3+ T-Cell Lymphoblastic Leukemia in a Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps): Clinical, Therapeutic, and Pathological Findings. Animals. 2025. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/4f28465a7d3d0491a6401607d097621c6bdc62ad

[8] Anna Linda Nógrádi, I. Cope, Dóra Csatári et al. Diagnosis and surgical management of idiopathic bile duct cysts in a bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps). Companion Animal. 2022. https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/9803f2e9f7b040f5fe7c3d8d8d61be79a364770d

[9] Dalen JP, Wong AD, Adamovicz L et al. Detection of Viable Nannizziopsis guarroi in Housing Environments Prior to Dermatological Lesion Development in Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps). Animals (Basel). 2026. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41594463/

[10] Budas E, Webster CRL, Barboza T. Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps) presenting for emergency evaluation with lethargy and anorexia are less likely to survive to discharge. Am J Vet Res. 2026. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41435509/

[11] Paphitis K, Reid A, Golightly HR et al. Reptile Exposure in Human Salmonellosis Cases and Salmonella Serotypes Isolated from Reptiles, Ontario, Canada, 2015-2022. Emerg Infect Dis. 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41017027/

[12] Guo Q, Pan Y, Dai W et al. A near-complete genome assembly of the bearded dragon Pogona vitticeps provides insights into the origin of Pogona sex chromosomes. Gigascience. 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40825570/

[13] Schilliger L, Paillusseau C, Gandar F et al. HYPERTENSIVE HEART DISEASE AND ENCEPHALOPATHY IN A CENTRAL BEARDED DRAGON (POGONA VITTICEPS) WITH SEVERE ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND FIRST-DEGREE ATRIOVENTRICULAR BLOCK. J Zoo Wildl Med. 2019. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31260220/

[14] Rams-Pociecha I, Mizia PC, Piprek RP. Gonadogenesis in the Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps, Agamidae): A Comprehensive Histological Analysis from Gonadal Ridge Formation to Testicular and Ovarian Development. Biology (Basel). 2026. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42345833/

[15] Mikiewicz M, Paździor-Czapula K, Otrocka-Domagała I. Cholangiocarcinoma in a central bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps): A case report. Aust Vet J. 2026. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42017649/

[16] Raphtis V, Roeder M, Jimenez-Romero A et al. An Ocular Manifestation of a Systemic Disease With Encephalitozoon Pogonae in a Juvenile Central Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps). Vet Ophthalmol. 2026. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40958376/

[17] Patel HR, Alreja K, Reis ALM et al. A near telomere-to-telomere phased genome assembly and annotation for the Australian central bearded dragon Pogona vitticeps. Gigascience. 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40825569/

[18] Orantes GG, Foster RA, Cecil TR et al. Cystic rete testis in a central bearded dragon (Pogonavitticeps). J Comp Pathol. 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40730040/

[19] Graham EA, Los Kamp EW, Thompson NM et al. Proliferative strongyloidiasis in a colony of colubrid snakes. Vet Pathol. 2024. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37458163/

[20] McFarland A, Conley KJ, Seimon TA et al. A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF AMOEBIASIS IN REPTILES IN A ZOOLOGICAL INSTITUTION. J Zoo Wildl Med. 2021. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33827181/