Showering a bearded dragon is not a suitable replacement for baths, as it can cause potential harm and will not provide the same health benefits. It is important to remember that bearded dragons are not used to showering and the water pressure can be too high. It also doesn’t provide the same level of hydration and won’t remove parasites or debris that may be present. It’s best to stick to bathing the dragon in a warm bowl of water on a regular basis.
What You'll Learn
Why Showering is Not a Suitable Replacement For Baths
Will Irritate The Skin
Although showering may seem like a convenient option, it is not a suitable replacement for baths. Not only can it cause potential harm, but it will also irritate your bearded dragon’s skin.
Bathing, on the other hand, is much gentler on their skin. The warm water helps to open the pores, allowing them to shed old skin and scales easily. This helps to ensure that their skin remains healthy and hydrated.
Doesn’t Provide The Same Level Of Hydration
Showering a bearded dragon does not provide the same level of hydration as a bath. Bathing your bearded dragon can help keep it hydrated, as it will help to replenish lost moisture through its skin.
It’s important to note that although baths are beneficial for hydration, they are not a substitute for providing clean drinking water.
Does Not Remove Parasites Or Debris
Bathing your bearded dragon is also important for removing parasites and debris from their skin. Showering is not effective and may actually drive these deeper into the skin.
Bathing your dragon in a shallow bowl of warm water is the best option for removing parasites and debris. Be sure to use clean, filtered water and gently move your dragon around the bowl to ensure that all areas of their body are exposed to the water.
You may also want to add a few drops of an antifungal or antibacterial solution to the water to help kill off any parasites or bacteria.
Water Pressure Is Too High
The water pressure from a shower is too much for a bearded dragon to handle. A shower head releases a much higher pressure of water than a small bowl or container.
This can cause the dragon to feel uncomfortable and stressed, as the water pressure is too high for it to bear.
It is also possible that the high-pressure water can damage the scales of the dragon, leading to irritation and distress.
Showering your bearded dragon is not a viable alternative, as it can cause potential harm and will not provide the same health benefits as a proper bath.
Preparing To Properly Clean A Bearded Dragon
Now you know you shouldn’t shower your bearded dragon, but you still want to clean them, what should you do?
The answer is to simply give them a bath.
Once you’ve decided it’s time to give your bearded dragon a bath, you’ll need to prepare the bath area.
You can use a mild detergent to help sanitize the water if necessary. Make sure the water is not too hot or too cold and adjust if needed before introducing your bearded dragon.
If you’re planning to use a towel for drying off afterwards (which you should), make sure it is clean and dry as well.
Prepare A Warm Bath In A Small Bowl
Once you have everything ready, you need to prepare the bath for your bearded dragon.
It is best to use a small bowl for your beardie’s bath as this will help to keep the water temperature at a comfortable level.
Fill the bowl with lukewarm water and make sure that the temperature is between 85-92 degrees Fahrenheit.
The bowl should be shallow enough so that your bearded dragon can easily get in and out.
Clean the water and make sure that there is no debris or contaminants in it.
Gently Place The Beardie In The Bath
Your bearded dragon should be gently placed in the water once the bath is ready.
It is best to place your hands on either side of the dragon’s body and slowly lower it into the water. This will give your pet time to get used to the new environment before they are fully submerged.
Make sure your beardie remains calm during this process. If they become distressed, take them out of the bath immediately and try again at a later time.
Cleaning
Once the environment is ready, you can start cleaning your bearded dragon. During this time, you can use a clean cloth to gently remove any parasites or debris. Make sure to carefully clean around the eyes and face, as these areas are sensitive and require extra care.
Let The Beardie Soak For 15-20 Minutes
Once the water has been prepared and the bearded dragon is comfortable in the bath, it is time to let them soak for 15 to 20 minutes. This is enough time for the water to properly hydrate their skin, as well as provide enough time for them to relax and enjoy the experience.
Your pet should be kept under your supervision during this time, ensuring that they don’t ingest too much water.
If the water becomes too cold or uncomfortable, you can always add a few drops of warm water to help maintain the temperature.
After 15-20 minutes, it is time to carefully remove the bearded dragon from the bath and pat them dry with a clean towel.
Pat Dry With A Clean Towel
A soft, clean towel should be used to pat your dragon dry after the bath. Doing this will prevent any skin irritation and will also help to keep your dragon warm.
Make sure to completely dry off your dragon, especially around the head, as water in the airways can cause respiratory problems.
After drying him off, wrap him up in a soft cloth and take him over to his enclosure.
Post-Cleaning
Place The Dragon Back Into Its Enclosure
Once the bearded dragon has been bathed and dried off, it’s now time to place them back into their enclosure.
The temperature of the tank or habitat should be taken into consideration. The temperature should be warm enough for your dragon and not too cold or hot.
It is possible for your dragon to become stressed or even injured if the temperature is too cold.
Before placing the dragon back inside the enclosure, ensure any food, water, or other items removed from the enclosure are replaced in their original places. The dragon will be more comfortable in its environment, and any stress caused by the bath will be reduced.
Monitor The Dragon For Any Signs Of Distress
After the shower, it’s important to closely monitor your bearded dragon for any signs of distress.
Look for signs such as lethargy, anxiety, or excessive scratching. If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately remove the dragon from their enclosure and take them to the vet.
Be sure to keep their habitat clean and free from parasites or debris to prevent any further irritation.
Key Points
- Showering a bearded dragon is not a suitable replacement for baths, as it can cause potential harm and will not provide the same health benefits.
- Showers will irritate the skin, not provide the same level of hydration and won’t remove parasites or debris.
- Water pressure from a shower is too high and can cause the dragon to feel uncomfortable and stressed.
- Prepare a warm bath in a small bowl, gently place the beardie in the bath, and let them soak for 15-20 minutes.
- Pat dry with a clean towel, place the dragon back into its enclosure, and monitor for any signs of distress.
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
