| Coccidiosis in bearded dragons is a condition caused | | | | main symptoms of coccidiosis in bearded dragons are |
| by protozoans called Coccidia. These parasites are | | | | stomach pain and diarrhea. |
| quite common and can be found in plenty of dragons | | | | The walls of the digestive system may also start to |
| in small numbers. This small amount of Coccidia | | | | bleed. Food displacement can also lead to general |
| causes no problems, but a severe infestation | | | | malnutrition. It's also common for dragons with this |
| certainly will. So, how exactly can your dragon get it? | | | | condition to experience weakness and lethargy. |
| Cause | | | | Diagnosis |
| We don't know exactly how these protozoans are | | | | Fortunately, bearded dragon coccidiosis is very easy |
| transmitted to bearded dragons. Some speculate that | | | | to diagnose once suspected. The only method of |
| it can be passed from the mother during egg | | | | diagnosis is a fecal exam. If the symptoms were |
| development. This would mean that even hatchlings | | | | indeed caused by Coccidia, then treatment will need |
| would a minimal amount of these protozoans. | | | | to begin immediately because Coccidia are very |
| Oocysts, the immature form of Coccidia, can also be | | | | contagious. |
| ingested by crickets and other insects and be passed | | | | Treatment |
| to your dragon upon consumption. | | | | If your vet diagnoses this disease, then he will |
| Signs | | | | prescribe your beardie sulfur drugs. While taking this |
| Your dragon's immune system normally keeps | | | | medication, you will need to isolate the dragon in a |
| Coccidia under control. However, if it's compromised | | | | separate tank. The tank needs to be kept extremely |
| by stress, parasites, or disease, the infestation may | | | | clean and sterile until the condition has been treated. |
| become severe and cause problems. Two of the | | | | |