7 Reasons Why Your Bearded Dragon Closes Its Eyes

In the wild, bearded dragons ReptileDirect.com are often on the lookout for predators. Due to this reason, they are naturally adapted to keeping their eyes open most of the time. So, if your beardie is closing its eyes frequently, there’s a cause for concern.

A bearded dragon may close its eyes when it’s being petted or held. This shows that it’s feeling stressed or uncomfortable. Some other medical reasons include dehydration, shedding, eye infections, and parasitic infections.

7 Reasons Why Bearded Dragons Keep Their Eyes Closed
From general discomfort to actual medical issues, there are numerous reasons for a bearded dragon to close its eyes. Let’s understand each in detail.

1. Discomfort While Petting or Holding Bearded Dragon
   

Although bearded dragons aren’t as expressive as other pets, they have their own unique quirks and habits.

For instance, unlike dogs and cats who close their eyes out of relaxation, these little reptiles close them when they’re feeling uncomfortable.

So, a general misunderstanding among new bearded dragon owners is that they misinterpret discomfort as relaxation! Now, this situation is extremely common when you’re petting or holding your little pet beardie.

Most bearded dragons don’t enjoy being petted or held – they just tolerate it. However, some of them may even express genuine unwillingness or dislike towards it by closing their eyes. The same situation is observed in baby bearded dragons too.

2. Dehydration

Humans aren’t the only species that need to stay hydrated. If your bearded dragon isn’t well-hydrated, it is going to show on its body too. One major sign of dehydration is when your beardie closes its eyes or has “sunken eyes”.

According to ScienceDirect, the water intake for most reptiles is around 0.7% to 2.7% of body mass per day. If they don’t get the required amount of water, they may close their eyes for moisture preservation.

If you’re wondering why your bearded dragon got dehydrated suddenly, look out for these causes.

Eye Infection
Keep in mind that eye infections are mainly caused due to dietary or hygiene reasons.

Bearded dragons need vitamins and minerals in their diet. A lack of vitamins, especially Vitamin A (hypovitaminosis A), may cause eye infections.

Additionally, poor tank hygiene may lead to bacterial infections that can affect the eyes. Sometimes, the substrate may also get in their eyes and cause eye problems.

4. Lighting Issues

We all close our eyes when a stark bright light is thrown on our faces. Well, lighting issues can also cause your bearded dragon to keep its eyes shut.

Typically, bearded dragons need at least 12 to 14 hours of UVB lighting. However, the UVB bulb should be able to emit 8% to 10% UVB. If it’s less than that, there might be problems with calcium absorption.

On the other hand, overexposing your beardie to too much UVB can also lead to issues. For instance, your bearded dragon may keep its eyes shut. It may also cause problems related to excessive calcium absorption (hypercalcemia).

5. Stuck Shed
   Most times if you’re offering proper tank conditions and diet, your bearded dragon may not have any problem with shedding. However, sometimes, the shed skin may get stuck (also known as Dysecydsis) instead of coming off of their fresh skin.

So, if your bearded dragon is not opening its eyes during or after shedding, check for any stuck shed. The shed skin may prohibit its eyes’ mobility, and cause immense pain.

6. Parasitic Infection
   Parasitic infections can affect various body parts of your bearded dragon, including the eyes. The reason is simple – most parasites, like mites, attack soft tissues. Hence, they might affect the eye tissues and the surrounding areas.

Parasitic infection can cause the eyes to swell and even tear up. Consequently, it may appear as if your beardie has closed its eyes. Or, it may actually close it out of pain and distress.

The cause of parasitic infections is mainly hygiene-related. Dirty enclosures or purchasing parasite-infested supplies may lead to parasitic infections in bearded dragons.

7. Basking
   It can get confusing to gauge whether your beardie is closing its eyes while basking due to lighting issues. After all, they may close their eyes or at least close them partially for relaxation during the basking process.

You can figure out the difference by noticing your beardie. If you notice any general discomfort or swelling near the eyes, it might be because of the basking light.