bearded dragon eye bulging

#Why Do Bearded Dragons Bulge Their Eyes? An Explanation of This Quirky Behavior

Bearded dragons are full of personality and interesting behaviors that often catch their owners off guard. One of the strangest things beardies do is bulge their eyes. This phenomenon is alarming at first glance but perfectly normal for the species.

Eye bulging is common in bearded dragons. There are several theories behind this odd trait – some point to health reasons while others show it’s just an involuntary reflex. Keep reading to learn all about bearded dragon eye bulging and what it means for your pet’s health and wellbeing.

What Does Eye Bulging Look Like in Bearded Dragons?

When a bearded dragon bulges its eyes, the eyeballs visibly protrude from the ocular cavities Instead of remaining tucked within the eye sockets, they push forward and appear more rounded and inflated

The tissue surrounding the eyes may also appear swollen as the ocular area becomes engorged with blood. However, swelling doesn’t always accompany eye bulging.

Young juveniles bulge their eyes more frequently than mature adults But beardies of all ages are capable of this peculiar trait

While alarming at first, it’s important to remember that eye bulging is normal in most cases. As long as it’s not accompanied by other symptoms, bulging alone is not a cause for concern.

Why Do Bearded Dragons Exhibit This Behavior?

There isn’t a definitive answer, but experts have several theories behind this phenomenon:

Shedding

Eye bulging may help loosen the skin around a bearded dragon’s eyes and eyelids during shedding. The skin covering the eyes is thin and delicate, making it one of the hardest areas to shed properly.

Pushing the eyes forward is thought to loosen the old skin in preparation for the new layer underneath. Eye bulging peaks during prime shedding seasons.

Yawning

Some experts liken eye bulging to a yawn. Bearded dragons may bulge their eyes when tired or hungry – similar to how humans involuntarily yawn when exhausted. These quick bulging episodes are most common after waking up.

Blood Pressure Regulation

Bearded dragons may share the ability to voluntarily raise ocular blood pressure like the horned lizard. Increasing blood flow to the eyes could relieve pressure in the rest of the body. Prolonged eye bulging may signify issues with blood pressure regulation.

Itchy Eyes

Bulging may also occur to relieve itchy eyes instead of physically scratching the delicate area. Filling the ocular cavities with blood reduces irritation and itchiness.

Genetic Trait

Certain morphs like silkbacks frequently exhibit eye bulging. If you have a silkback, repeated eye bulging is likely tied to genetics rather than health.

Is Eye Bulging Normal in Baby Bearded Dragons?

Don’t be alarmed if your young beardie bulges its eyes frequently. Juveniles and babies shed more often than adult dragons, so bulging happens more regularly as they prepare to shed.

Babies also bulge when yawning, stretching, or dealing with irritation. While disturbing at first glance, this is perfectly normal behavior for young and old bearded dragons alike.

How Long Does Eye Bulging Typically Last?

When eye bulging is normal, brief episodes are common. The eyes may bulge for a few moments before retracting back to their sockets.

Prolonged bulging can also occur with blood pressure regulation and shedding. In these cases, expect bulging to come and go episodically for up to an hour at a time.

If eye bulging persists continuously for multiple hours or days in a row, an underlying issue like infection may be to blame. Schedule a vet visit if abnormal eye bulging persists.

When Should I Worry About Eye Bulging?

While mostly normal, eye bulging can occasionally stem from health problems. Contact your exotic veterinarian if bulging is accompanied by:

• Swelling around the eyes
• Discharge or mucus around the eyes
• Keeping the eyes closed or partially closed
• Apparent difficulty opening the eyes
• Lethargy, weakness, or loss of appetite
• Persistent bulging over multiple hours or days

Potential causes for problematic eye bulging include:

Improper Vitamin A Levels

Too much or too little vitamin A can cause eye bulging. Your vet can check for hypovitaminosis or toxicity and adjust your bearded dragon’s supplements accordingly.

Infection

Bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections can cause bulging, swelling, discharge, and other symptoms. Infections often result from poor husbandry and sanitation.

Physical Trauma

Injuries from sharp decor, aggressive tankmates, or accidental eye scratches can all lead to abnormal bulging, especially if one eye is affected. Always inspect for potential sources of trauma inside the tank.

Tumors or Abnormal Growths

While not always cancerous, tumors around the ocular region may bulge the eyes outward. Seek prompt veterinary diagnosis to differentiate tumors from other issues.

How to Care for a Bearded Dragon with Eye Bulging

Maintain Proper Husbandry

Prevent infections and shed-related bulging by keeping your beardie’s habitat clean and humidity levels ideal. Use a hygrometer to maintain 30-40% humidity.

Support Healthy Shedding

Mist more frequently and provide soaks during shedding periods. Use a cotton swab to gently remove stuck shed around the eyes if needed. Avoid pulling skin.

Visit an Exotics Veterinarian

If abnormal eye bulging persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, schedule a prompt vet visit for diagnosis and treatment. They can identify any underlying issues.

Follow Your Vet’s Orders

Follow all instructions for medications and care if bulging is caused by a medical problem like infection or trauma. Never self-diagnose or self-treat without an exam.

The Bottom Line

While eye bulging looks disturbing, it’s perfectly normal for bearded dragons when associated with shedding, yawning, hunger, blood pressure, and ocular irritation. There’s no treatment required unless it stems from an underlying health issue. Monitor for other symptoms and see the vet if bulging persists abnormally. With proper care and prompt veterinary attention when needed, eye bulging is nothing to worry about for your bearded dragon.