my bearded dragon wont eat

Question
I've have my bearded dragon for at least 5 months now. Since last week, my lizard began to ignore its food. I've attempted to feed it carrots and small bits of melon but he still ignores the food.Please help.thank you

Answer
Hi Tyler,

There are a fairly large number of reasons that a bearded might stop eating. I am assuming that he is not showing interest in any food, including crickets or other insects.

It is best to eliminate the simplest possibilities first and the first thing to verify is the temperature. Reptile appetites are extremely temperature driven. If they are cool or below optimum temp. for digesting they quickly stop eating. Just double check again with an accurate thermometer to be sure. He should have a basking temperature of 95F to 105F. Once summer hits and people start using their central air conditioner, that can lower the temperature of the enclosure, especially if an air conditioner vent is near the tank.

You didn't happen to mention whether he was showing any other signs of illness such as lethargy, sunken eyes or weight loss. Lack of feeding in combination with these other symptoms means he really should be seen by a vet. It could be a flare-up of intestinal parasites which are extremely common with beardeds.

If he seems otherwise normal and appears active, alert and bright eyed then you might just try a different type of feeder insect. This can often trigger a feeding response. Most dragons love large/superworms or Dubia roaches if you get them. Silkworms are another option.

Feel free to post a follow-up about what you tried feeding him and other details about his condition and his enclosure details.