Bearded dragons are incredibly popular pet reptiles, and with good reason. These lovable creatures are easy to care for, don’t require a lot of space, and are generally quite hardy. But despite their reputation, bearded dragons can still suffer from a variety of health issues, just like any other pet. One of the most common ailments that bearded dragons face is an infected eye. It’s not always easy to spot, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs and symptoms of an infected eye, as well as the steps you should take to treat it.
What is an Infected Eye?
An infected eye is an eye infection caused by a variety of different bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It’s most commonly caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, but can also be caused by other bacteria, fungi, or parasites. An infected eye can cause a variety of symptoms, from redness and swelling to discharge and even blindness in severe cases.
Common Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of an infected eye can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In mild cases, you may not even notice any symptoms at all. But in more severe cases, you may notice the following:
- Redness in the eye and around the eye area.
- Swollen and painful eyes.
- Discharge from the eye.
- Cloudy vision.
- A loss of appetite.
- Lethargy and a lack of energy.
- Rubbing or pawing at the eye.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your bearded dragon, it’s important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. The sooner you get your bearded dragon treated, the more likely it is that their eye will recover.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In order to diagnose an infected eye, your veterinarian will need to perform a physical examination and take a sample of the eye discharge. The sample will then be analyzed under a microscope to determine the cause of the infection. Once the cause has been determined, your veterinarian can prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Treatment for an infected eye usually includes antibiotics, antifungals, or antiparasitics, depending on the cause of the infection. Your veterinarian may also recommend a topical ointment to help reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove any debris or dead tissue that may be trapped in the eye.
Preventing Infected Eyes
The best way to prevent an infected eye is to ensure your bearded dragon is getting the proper care it needs. Be sure to clean your bearded dragon’s enclosure regularly, and make sure the humidity and temperature levels stay within the proper range. It’s also important to keep your bearded dragon’s diet balanced, which means feeding them a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
You should also check your bearded dragon’s eyes regularly. If you notice any redness or swelling, contact your veterinarian right away. Early detection and treatment are key in preventing an infected eye from becoming more severe.
Conclusion
Bearded dragons are a popular pet reptile, but they can still suffer from health issues like an infected eye. An infected eye can be difficult to spot, but it’s important to look out for any signs or symptoms of infection. If you think your bearded dragon may have an infected eye, take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. With prompt treatment, your bearded dragon’s eye should recover in no time.
