Bearded dragons need their nails trimmed regularly. You should trim your dragon’s claws when they become too long and start to curl inwards. It is vital to keep them healthy and contented, so have a vet or experienced pet-sitter demonstrate how to do it accurately if you are new at doing this yourself.
What You'll Learn
Why Do Bearded Dragons Need Their Nails Trimmed?
Bearded dragons need their nails trimmed for a variety of reasons. These include preventing nail damage, keeping their nails from growing too long, and preventing them from scratching you.
It is important to keep an eye on the length of a bearded dragon’s nails, if they become too long they can cause the lizard pain and discomfort, and even damage its enclosure. Trimming a bearded dragon’s nails regularly can help prevent these issues.
Prevent Nail Damage
Nail trimming for bearded dragons isn’t just about preventing scratches to you or your family, it is also vital for the health of your pet. If the nails are left too long, they can curl around, causing pain and discomfort, as well as damaging the enclosure they are living in. This can even result in injury to the dragon.
Regularly trimming their nails keeps them healthy and comfortable and prevents any potential damage.
To Keep Their Nails from Growing Too Long
Keeping bearded dragon nails trimmed is also important to prevent them from growing too long. If nails grow too long, they may curl under, causing pain and discomfort.
This can cause your dragon to have difficulty climbing and holding onto surfaces. Trimming your bearded dragon’s nails regularly will help prevent this from happening.
To Keep Them from Scratching You
Bearded dragons are naturally curious creatures and like to explore their surroundings. However, their sharp claws can cause a lot of harm to their owners, especially when they start to scratch. Clipping their nails is the best way to prevent this from happening.
Signs That a Bearded Dragon Needs Their Nails Trimmed
Knowing when to trim your bearded dragon’s nails is just as important as knowing how to do it. It’s important to be aware of the signs that your dragon needs its nails trimmed, such as trouble climbing and holding onto surfaces, pain or discomfort when its nails are touched, or if the nails are visibly causing damage to its enclosure. If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to trim their nails.
Trouble Climbing or Holding onto Surfaces
Signs that a bearded dragon needs their nails trimmed can include trouble climbing or holding onto surfaces. If they are having difficulty scaling walls, perches, or other structures in their environment, it could be a sign that their nails are too long.
Even if they’re not having difficulty climbing, you should still check their nails to make sure that they aren’t too long. If your bearded dragon is having difficulty climbing, you may need to trim its nails to help it better grip surfaces.
Pain or Discomfort When Its Nails Are Touched
If you notice your bearded dragon displaying signs of discomfort, such as shying away or flinching when you touch its nails, then it may be time for a trim.
This is a sign that their nails are too long and may be causing pain or discomfort when your pet is walking, climbing, or being handled.
Nails Are Visibly Causing Damage to Its Enclosure
If your bearded dragon’s nails are causing visible damage to its enclosure, it’s likely a sign that it’s time for a trim. You can tell this is the case if you notice scratches on the walls of their habitat, or if their nails get stuck in the mesh of their enclosure.
It’s important to trim your pet’s nails regularly to avoid any potential damage to its enclosure. Doing so is also essential for ensuring your bearded dragon’s safety, as it will help them to grip and climb without slipping or getting stuck.
How to Trim a Bearded Dragon’s Nails
Before you get started, you’ll want to make sure that you have the right tools for the job.
Nail clippers are the best choice for trimming your bearded dragon’s nails, but scissors can also be used. Make sure you have a towel or soft cloth to wrap around your bearded dragon, as this will help keep them calm and still while you’re trimming their nails.
You’ll also want to have some treats on hand to reward your bearded dragon after they are done with their nail trimming.
Now that you’re ready, let’s take a look at how to safely trim your bearded dragon’s nails.
Prepare the Trimming Area
Before you start trimming your bearded dragon’s nails, it’s important to take the time to prepare the area. Make sure that you have all the necessary supplies, such as nail clippers or scissors and a nail file.
You should also have a towel or blanket handy in case your dragon gets cold or fussy. Set up the area with plenty of room for you and your dragon to move around comfortably.
It’s also important to make sure that the area is calm and quiet so that your dragon feels safe and secure.
Once you’ve prepared the area, you can begin trimming your dragon’s nails.
Gently Hold the Bearded Dragon
Once you’ve set up your trimming station, it’s time to prepare your bearded dragon for its nail trim. Start by gently picking up your dragon with both hands and cradling it in your arms.
If your dragon is skittish, use a towel to wrap them up in a burrito-like shape. This will help keep them calm and secure. Make sure to talk to them gently and give them lots of praise while they are being held.
Use Nail Clippers or Scissors to Trim the Nails
Once you have properly restrained and prepared the area, you can begin to trim the nails.
The best tools for trimming a bearded dragon’s nails are either small nail clippers or pet-friendly scissors. Nail clippers are ideal for small, round nails since they offer more control and precision when cutting. For larger nails or for more control, you can use pet-safe scissors. Be sure to use a tool that is appropriate for the size of the nail.
Don’t Cut Too Close to the Quick
It’s important to avoid cutting too close to the quick because bearded dragons have blood vessels leading into their nails. This can cause pain or discomfort for your pet, and can even lead to infection.
If you’re not sure how close is too close, it’s best to err on the side of caution and leave a little extra length. You can always come back later and trim off any excess.
As a general rule, it’s best to trim their nails once a month. With proper care and maintenance, your beloved bearded dragon’s nails will stay healthy and strong.
Provide Comfort and Reward After Nail Trimming
After you have finished trimming your bearded dragon’s nails, it’s important to provide comfort and reward to your pet. This can come in the form of extra snuggles or treats.
Hi! My name is Bryan, I am the “one behind the words” here are BeardieAnswers.com. I believe that providing quality care and nutrition is the best way to ensure the health of your pet. Every beardie is special and deserves the best care and attention. If you have questions about your bearded dragon, please don’t hesitate to ask! View My Full Author Page
