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My bearded dragon died suddenly after eating. Why did it happen?

Updated on September 23, 2025

I no this might be stupid to ask but from the photos attached can you please help me by telling me what killed my 8year old bearded dragon half a hour before pitchers was running about in her tank eating 5th hopper small tube only 2 and then went and mad a coffee and come back and found her lifelis with what looks like her head squashed down over her eyes or her eyes sunking in to her skull Your's Sincerely JAMIE MURDOCK

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 25, 2019

I'm a so very sorry. I can't tell you for sure based on the photos but since it was around feeding time, choking is a possibility. Other possibilities:

* Atadenovirus
* Heart disease
* Kidney or liver disease

Please don't think it was anything you did wrong. Animals (especially birds and reptiles) are very good at hiding illness until it is often too late.

Again, so sorry this happened. If you want an exact diagnosis you would have to have a vet in your area do a necropsy (autopsy) on him.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA
Veterinarian
Published on June 8, 2017
I'm sorry that taz isn't feeling well. He is mighty cute. There are several things that can cause decreased appetite and not pooping including intestinal parasites or a blockage (from eating something he shouldn't). I would recommend to contact your vet for them to do an exam and some diagnostics. They may want to run a fecal or some abdominal x-rays. I hope he starts to feel better really soon!

Please feel free to contact us again on the forum or set up a consult if you have additional questions or would like more information.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on March 13, 2017
These are quite generic signs and this behaviour could even be completely normal. Adult bearded dragons may get into period of starvation and lethargy sometimes.
I would recommend a check up at your local veterinarian anyway to be on the safe side and make sure he is completely normal on physical examination.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA
Veterinarian
Published on December 22, 2016
Loss of appetite is a very vague sign and can occur with almost any illness or injury. Feel free to repost with more information but a full vet check would be recommended if you cannot identify any further clues
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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