Two Common Disorders of Captive Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps): Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism and Constipation

Two common disorders of captive bearded dragons are nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism (NSHP) and constipation. Recognizing the husbandry factors that predispose bearded dragons to these disease conditions is an important clinical skill. Treatment of NSHP is aimed at correcting husbandry deficiencies and dietary management. Treatment of constipation depends on the underlying cause but is frequently due to a lack of sufficient water in the diet and the environment.