Bearded Dragon Eyes Turning Yellow: What To Do?

Bearded dragons are a popular reptile pet and can make wonderful companions. However, it is important to be aware of the signs of illness in your bearded dragon, such as their eyes turning yellow.

Yellowing eyes can indicate various health issues, ranging from minor dietary deficiencies to more serious underlying conditions. As a reptile health expert, I understand the importance of recognizing and responding quickly to any changes in your pet’s appearance or behavior.

In this article, we will discuss what causes bearded dragons’ eyes to turn yellow and how you can treat them. We will also provide tips on how to prevent this issue from happening again in the future.

Reading further will give you an insight into understanding the warning signs that something may be wrong with your beloved pet and equip you with the knowledge needed for proper care and treatment if needed.

Why bearded dragon eyes turn yellow

Bearded Dragon head
Credit: Lindsey Hatfield

Bearded dragon eyes may turn yellow for various reasons, like bacterial infections or liver disorders. This is because of the accumulation of bilirubin, a compound processed by the liver. This condition can be harmful and should not be ignored.

To diagnose the issue, go to a vet. Tests will be conducted to figure out the cause and give the right treatment. A common remedy is administering antibiotics if a bacterial infection is found.

Prevention is better than cure. Keep hygiene and health care practices up to date to avoid reptile problems. Give fresh water and a balanced diet which includes live insects, dark leafy greens, and vegetables.

Also, keep the temperature inside their habitat constant. If you notice changes in behavior or physical appearance, act quickly before it gets worse.

What to do if bearded dragon eyes turn yellow

BlondeD Bearded Dragon for Colbert!
Credit: Critter Camp Mom

Bearded dragon eyes turning yellow can be a concerning problem for pet owners. If you notice this issue, it’s essential to take immediate action. To address this problem, you must first ensure that your dragon’s environment is optimal for its health, including diet and lighting. Secondly, yellowing eyes may also be a sign of stress, so provide sufficient space and minimize handling.

Apart from these general suggestions, it’s crucial to visit a veterinarian promptly. They can carry out an ocular examination and diagnose any underlying conditions. Moreover, a veterinary inspection can rule out any possible ailment, such as bacterial or viral infections, abscesses, or parasites.

Finally, ensure that your dragon is adequately hydrated and free of dehydration. Provide clean water regularly and make it accessible to them. Suppose dehydration is the cause of the yellow eye. In that case, increasing the frequency of misting or soaking the dragon in lukewarm water could help ameliorate the issue.

Looks like it’s time to play detective and investigate the bearded dragon’s surroundings for any potential suspects causing those yellow eyes.

Checking the environment

Keep a close watch on your bearded dragon’s environment. Cleanliness and healthiness are key for eye infections and diseases to stay away.

Dust, humidity, low temps, and inadequate lighting can all cause eye troubles. Use a thermometer and hygrometer to check the temp and humidity. Make sure the enclosure has good ventilation to stop respiratory issues.

Give them proper basking spots and UVB lights. Natural sunlight is also beneficial. Creating a safe environment will decrease the chance of eye issues from poor conditions.

If the yellowing continues or gets worse even after improving the habitat, or if there’s discharge, swelling, or behavioral changes, take action and go to the vet.

Examining the diet

A bearded dragon’s dietary needs are as follows: 80% vegetables, 10-20% protein, 5-10% fruits, and supplements as required. Veggies are essential for their nutrition. Small amounts of proteins and fruits are good too. Supplements such as calcium or vitamin D3 can be used as needed.

Be aware, oxalates like spinach and kale should be avoided, as they can cause kidney damage in high quantities. If you notice yellowing in your bearded dragon’s eyes, they may have liver problems. See a vet for proper treatment. It’s best to go to a vet anyway – WebMD isn’t a medical degree!

Consulting a veterinarian

Seeking help from a vet specializing in reptiles is suggested if any issues arise with a bearded dragon’s body or behavior. A vet can spot problems that may not be easy to notice, including yellow eyes.

The vet will review the dragon’s diet, habitat, and overall health. Depending on the diagnosis, extra tests or medication may be prescribed. Timely veterinary care can stop serious issues from getting worse.

Make sure your bearded dragon gets help from an experienced reptile vet. Regular check-ups with them can spot potential issues before they become a problem.

Pro Tip: Don’t rely on online sources for diagnosis – get info on your dragon’s health status from a reliable expert.

When it comes to yellow eyes in dragons, eye drops won’t do – they need special attention.

Treatment options for yellow eyes

A detailed understanding of the treatment options for yellow eyes in bearded dragons is crucial for their long-term health and well-being.

One way to manage this issue is to provide proper nutrition, including a diet rich in both protein and vitamins. Another option is to adjust the lighting in their enclosure, as improper lighting can lead to eye problems. Additionally, it is important to maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness in their habitat to reduce the risk of infections that can affect their eyes.

It is also essential to note that prevention is better than cure when it comes to bearded dragon eye health. Regular check-ups with a qualified veterinarian can help catch any potential issues early on, preventing more severe problems down the line.

A common cause of yellowing eyes in bearded dragons is the presence of Vitamin A deficiency, which can severely impact their overall health. Providing a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits can help to alleviate this issue, although in certain cases, supplementation may be necessary.

When it comes to eye drops for bearded dragons, I always say ‘a couple of squirts a day keeps the yellow away.’

Eye drops or ointments

Treatment options for discolored sclera include eye drops and ointments. These over-the-counter products can help reduce yellowing of the sclera.

  • Redness relievers can be used to shrink dilated blood vessels.
  • Allergy medication can ease yellowing caused by allergies.
  • Lubricating drops can add moisture for dry eye syndrome.

But, these treatments may not cure the underlying cause. It’s best to consult a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Pro Tip: Proper hygiene practices can help prevent discoloration. These include avoiding rubbing eyes, wearing sunglasses outdoors, and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake.

Antibiotics

Treating yellow eyes? It may be time to get microbial agents involved! Antibacterials – medicines that kill bacteria and microorganisms – can help with those pesky eye infections. But first, an ophthalmologist should be consulted. Antibiotic ointment or drops are commonly prescribed for bacterial conjunctivitis – swollen eyes with pus discharge. Eye examination is a must for diagnosis and treatment. Systemic antibiotics may be needed for severe cases.

It’s important to note that premature discontinuation of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic-resistant microorganisms, making recovery more challenging. Overuse of antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of future applications. One person, without seeking medical advice, experienced severe eye irritation and inflammation, putting their work on hold. Thankfully, several doctor visits later, relief was found and normal activity resumed.

Surgery

The yellowing of the eyes can be addressed through many treatments. Scleral buckling is one of them. This involves a tiny band around the eye to reduce the yellowish colouring.

A liver transplant is another surgical option to address any underlying liver conditions causing the discolouration. But, it’s important to note that surgery should only be considered after other, non-invasive treatments have been tried.

Pro Tip: Talk to a medical expert about all the treatment options before opting for surgery. Or, why not just get tiny sunglasses for your bearded dragons?

Preventing yellow eyes in bearded dragons

Paragraph 1 – To keep your bearded dragon’s eyes from turning yellow, it is important to focus on preventative measures. By consistently providing a balanced diet, ensuring proper hydration, and maintaining a clean enclosure, you can help prevent the development of yellow eyes in your bearded dragon.

Paragraph 2 –

  1. Feed a balanced diet: Provide your bearded dragon with a balanced diet that includes a variety of fresh vegetables, fruits, and insects. This will help ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients to maintain good eye health.
  2. Keep them hydrated: Ensure your bearded dragon has access to clean water at all times and mist their enclosure daily to help maintain proper hydration levels.
  3. Maintain a clean enclosure: Regularly clean the enclosure and provide appropriate substrate to prevent irritation to their eyes.

Paragraph 3 – Additionally, it is important to monitor your bearded dragon for any signs of illness or infection, as yellow eyes can be a symptom. Take your bearded dragon to a veterinarian specializing in reptiles if you notice any concerning symptoms.

Paragraph 4 – Pro Tip: Avoid placing any objects in your bearded dragon’s enclosure that could cause eye irritation, such as sharp objects or excessive lighting. Keeping your bearded dragon’s lighting on point may make them look like they have a case of jaundice, but rest assured it’s just their fashion statement.

Maintaining proper lighting

Bearded dragons need balanced UVB lighting, and the bulb should be replaced every 6-12 months. This is to ensure consistent coverage and intensity. It’s important to provide a basking area with the right temperature too. UVB output decreases over time, even if the bulb is still lit. That’s why regular replacement is vital.

Compared to other reptiles, bearded dragons require more UVB. Inadequate lighting can lead to health issues like metabolic bone disease and weakened immune systems. Reptile Magazine states that eye troubles often happen due to insufficient UV light. Proper lighting will help prevent this and keep your pet healthy.

Don’t forget that a balanced diet is also essential for your bearded dragon to stay healthy – and your bank account!

Providing a balanced diet

For the well-being of your bearded dragon, it is important to give them a balanced diet. Here are some tips:

  • Provide lots of veg like leafy greens, carrots and squash.
  • Include insect protein or small amounts of meat once or twice a week.
  • Avoid foods with high oxalates, like spinach and kale. Also, limit fruits due to their sugar content.

Observe your dragon’s eating habits and behaviour. This will let you know if there’s any dietary deficiencies or excesses, which may cause yellowing of the eyes. Remember, overfeeding can bring health issues.

Also, make sure they always have access to clean drinking water. This helps prevent dehydration-related ailments.

Rotate food items in each category instead of feeding the same things every day. This way, they get a wide range of nutrients for optimal health.

Vet visits are like car oil changes, except dragons won’t grumble about wait times!

Regular veterinary check-ups

Regular vet visits are essential for a bearded dragon’s health. Exams can catch any hidden issues before they get serious and cause yellow eyes. The vet can do a complete checkup to spot any problems early, and give preventative treatment.

A balanced diet is also key. The right ratio of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients keeps them fit and reduces the risk of yellow eyes. Some store-bought diets may not have enough of these, leading to nutrient deficiency or even toxicity which can discolor the eyes.

Natural sunlight helps too. Prolonged UVB exposure increases calcium absorption, keeping their bones healthy and boosting overall wellness.

Don’t let yellow fever strike – follow these tips to keep your dragon’s eyes shining!

Conclusion

Yellow eyes in a bearded dragon can be a warning sign of potential health problems. It is essential to keep an eye on any changes and consult a reptile vet for diagnosis and treatment.

Nutrition with calcium and vitamin D3, plus access to fresh water, can help maintain well-being. Cleanliness is also very important: change cage substrate, disinfect bowls, and replace heat lamps and UVB bulbs regularly. Remember: routine vet visits, good nutrition, and hygiene practices are the keys to your bearded dragon’s happiness!