Why is my Bearded Dragon Sleeping so much

by Sehrish Vulvox ABC

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures and one of the most popular pets for reptile enthusiasts. They are known for their active and curious nature, but if you notice that your bearded dragon is sleeping more than usual, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue. In this article, we will explore the reasons why your bearded dragon may be sleeping excessively and provide solutions to help your pet get back to their normal active self.

Normal Sleeping Habits of Bearded Dragons

Before we delve into the reasons for excessive sleeping, it is essential to understand the normal sleeping habits of bearded dragons. Bearded dragons require 12-14 hours of sleep each day. They usually sleep in short intervals during the day and longer periods at night. During their sleep, they may change positions, twitch, or open their eyes briefly.

Reasons for Excessive Sleeping

There are several reasons why your bearded dragon may be sleeping excessively. Here are some of the common causes:

  • Brumation

Brumation is a natural process similar to hibernation that occurs in reptiles, including bearded dragons. During brumation, the reptile’s metabolism slows down, and they enter a state of torpor. This is a common occurrence in adult bearded dragons and can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. If your bearded dragon is in brumation, they may sleep for extended periods and show little interest in food or water.

  • Illness or Infection

If your bearded dragon is sleeping more than usual and showing other symptoms such as loss of appetite, lethargy, or diarrhea, they may be ill or have an infection. Common illnesses in bearded dragons include respiratory infections, parasitic infections, and metabolic bone disease. If you suspect that your bearded dragon is ill, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian as soon as possible.

  • Stress

Stress can also cause excessive sleeping in bearded dragons. Stressful conditions may include improper lighting or temperature, overcrowded living conditions, or lack of stimulation. Bearded dragons may also become stressed if they feel threatened or intimidated by their surroundings or other pets in the household.

  • Temperature and Lighting

Temperature and lighting are crucial factors in the health and wellbeing of bearded dragons. If the temperature in their habitat is too low or too high, they may become lethargic and sleep more than usual. Inadequate lighting can also affect their sleep and overall health.

  • Lack of Exercise

Bearded dragons require regular exercise to stay healthy and active. If they are not provided with sufficient opportunities to move around and explore their environment, they may become lethargic and sleep more than usual.

Signs of Excessive Sleeping in Bearded Dragons

Bearded dragons are diurnal reptiles, which means they are most active during the day and sleep at night. However, it’s not uncommon for a bearded dragon to sleep during the day, especially if they feel stressed or if their habitat doesn’t provide enough stimulation.

While occasional napping during the day is normal for bearded dragons, excessive sleeping can be a sign of an underlying issue. Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate your bearded dragon is sleeping too much:

  • Lethargy – If your bearded dragon seems uninterested in its surroundings or doesn’t move much when awake, it may be sleeping too much.
  • Lack of Appetite – Bearded dragons can become lethargic and lose their appetite when they are sleeping too much.
  • Difficulty Breathing – Bearded dragons that sleep excessively may also have difficulty breathing, which can be a sign of an underlying respiratory infection.
  • Sunken Eyes – When a bearded dragon sleeps too much, it can cause dehydration, which can result in sunken eyes.
  • Weight Loss – If your bearded dragon is sleeping excessively and not eating, it can lead to weight loss.

How Diet Affects Sleeping Patterns in Bearded Dragons

The diet of a bearded dragon can have a significant impact on their overall health and well-being, including their sleeping patterns. In order to ensure that your bearded dragon is getting enough energy and nutrients to support their daily activities, it’s important to feed them a balanced and varied diet.

  • One way that diet can affect a bearded dragon’s sleep patterns is through the timing and amount of food they are given. Bearded dragons are known to have a fast metabolism, which means they need to eat frequently in order to maintain their energy levels.
  • Another way that diet can affect a bearded dragon’s sleep patterns is through the type of food they are given. Bearded dragons are omnivorous and require a mix of both plant and animal-based foods in their diet. A diet that is too high in protein can lead to excessive energy levels, which may make it difficult for them to settle down and sleep. On the other hand, a diet that is too low in protein may not provide enough energy for them to stay active during the day.

Conclusion

Bearded dragons are fascinating creatures that require proper care and attention to thrive. While it’s normal for them to sleep during the day, excessive sleeping can be a sign of an underlying health issue or environmental factor. By paying attention to the signs of excessive sleeping and taking steps to ensure that their diet and habitat are properly balanced, you can help your bearded dragon stay healthy and happy. Remember to offer a balanced and varied diet that provides them with the nutrients they need to stay active during the day and restful at night.

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