Have you noticed something unusual about your bearded dragon? Is its mouth slightly ajar, making you wonder what could be wrong?

You’re not alone. Many bearded dragon owners come across this scenario.

Let’s delve into the possible reasons behind this behavior and see how we can help our scaly friends.

5 Reasons Why Your Bearded Dragon’s Mouth Is Slightly Ajar

• Overheating
  Bearded dragons are cold-blooded and rely on their environment to regulate body temperature. If your pet’s enclosure is too warm, it may gape its mouth to cool down.
• Respiratory Infections
  A respiratory infection can cause your bearded dragon’s mouth to remain slightly open. This symptom, along with wheezing or discharge from the mouth, needs immediate veterinary attention.
• Brumation
  During brumation, similar to hibernation, a bearded dragon might keep its mouth ajar. You’ll notice your pet eating less and being less active during this period.
• Mouth Rot
  Mouth rot, or stomatitis, is a common disease in reptiles. If your bearded dragon’s mouth is persistently open, check for other symptoms like redness, swelling, or a foul smell.
• Stress
  Stress is another reason why a bearded dragon might keep its mouth slightly open. Stress can be induced by changes in environment, handling, or diet, among other factors.

How to Respond to Your Bearded Dragon’s Ajar Mouth

Once you’ve identified why your bearded dragon’s mouth is slightly ajar, it’s time to act. Here’s your game plan.

First off, maintain a calm disposition. Our scaled friends get stressed easily, so it’s crucial to handle them gently. If dehydration is the problem, increase the frequency of misting and provide fresh, clean water at all times.

Is poor nutrition at fault? A diet rich in calcium and phosphorus, with live insects and leafy greens, should put your pet back on track.

If you suspect respiratory infections, immediately contact a vet. Do not try to treat it yourself as it can lead to severe complications.

In cases of mouth rot, a professional intervention is needed. Follow the veterinarian’s advice keenly.

Remember, your bearded dragon’s health is in your hands. Pay attention to the subtle signs they show, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help when needed.

To further extend your knowledge about bearded dragons, here are a few more to explore:

• Why Does My Bearded Dragon Dig So Ferociously?
• Why Does My Bearded Dragon Seem To Cough?
• Why Is My Male Bearded Dragon Engaged In Digging?

Each post offers in-depth insights, giving you all the details you need to take good care of your beardie.

Remember to research and prepare for your pet’s specific needs, and you’ll have a happy and healthy companion for years to come.

Happy pet-keeping!