mybeardeddragons.co.uk

Hi,
Just a quick update with some worries on my new little fella... I've had him 2 weeks now (6 months old) he still isn't eating much... One day he may take 10 locusts, but Most days its just 2-4, I hand feed him veg every morning to make sure he is getting his greens (kale, rocket, snap peas, parsley, watercress, green beans, sweet potato, occasional carrot and red pepper) I bath him every day occasionally missing a day... I noticed some bubbles coming out of one of his nostrils, has happened a few times in the same one, it looks blocked which could be sand blockage as he used to dig (substrate recently replaced to slate) he doesn't catch his food very well, seems to not bother to chase them unless they are very close to him... I can't seem to maintain his temperture on the warm side, with the thermometer directly under his basking light it will reach 40+ degrees but overall the warm side stays around 35 degrees.. I know the serious cons of heat mats but could I place one (23 watts) under a good few sheets of newspaper with a slate slab on top? Or would that still be a danger as I'm not sure about them.. Lastly his poop is looking rather lumpy and Yesterday it Still had bits of formed locusts, is this normal? should I consider taking him for a check up over at the vets? Thank you

Temps are actually good - basking spot itself needs to be 39~42C with the surrounding area mid to high 30's and a cool end mid 20's. Daily bathing is really not recommended and if he's blowing bubbles from a nostril he may well have a respiratory infection which would explain the erratic appetite. I would suggest that if he's still not eating well and showing signs of a (possible) breathing problem a visit to a specialist vet is in order.

Rick

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Beardies from an Australian point of view.

I have been debating the vets for a few days now because of all the stuff I've read online :-/ but I also know its easier to worry when your not very experienced, A BIG thank you to you, I'd be a wreck without this site!!! His appointment is in a few hours! So i should find out then if my little buddy is poorly!!