Sunken Scales

[LizardLover4Ever]

Hello, I have a 2 and a half year old male bearded dragon (Aussie) that I’ve recently seen a change in. The scales on the top and side of his head have started sinking in (see picture below). It looks as though the pointy part of the scale has been pushed in, creating a crater-like scale. This has been happening slowly, but it’s gotten to the point where I can definitively say that it was not like this before, back when I got him a year ago. I haven’t changed anything with the way that I care for him or feed him, so I don’t understand why this would be happening. If anyone knows what is going on and how to prevent further scale sinking, I would greatly appreciate your help! Thank you!

 

[KarrieRee]

Hello, I have a 2 and a half year old male bearded dragon (Aussie) that I’ve recently seen a change in. The scales on the top and side of his head have started sinking in (see picture below). It looks as though the pointy part of the scale has been pushed in, creating a crater-like scale. This has been happening slowly, but it’s gotten to the point where I can definitively say that it was not like this before, back when I got him a year ago. I haven’t changed anything with the way that I care for him or feed him, so I don’t understand why this would be happening. If anyone knows what is going on and how to prevent further scale sinking, I would greatly appreciate your help! Thank you!
View attachment 68306

@Drache613
@AHBD

 

[AHBD]

It just seems to be something that some beardies develop. Not any type of health problem afaik.

 

[LizardLover4Ever]

It just seems to be something that some beardies develop. Not any type of health problem afaik.

Really? I didn’t know that this was a common thing, but I’m relieved to hear it’s not a problem! Thank you.

 

[gabshire]

It just seems to be something that some beardies develop. Not any type of health problem afaik.

I was surprised to hear how widespread this is, so it's good to know it's not just me. Thank you so much.

 

[AHBD]

You're welcome

 

[Adhdogtraining]

Hello, I have a 2 and a half year old male bearded dragon (Aussie) that I’ve recently seen a change in. The scales on the top and side of his head have started sinking in (see picture below). It looks as though the pointy part of the scale has been pushed in, creating a crater-like scale. This has been happening slowly, but it’s gotten to the point where I can definitively say that it was not like this before, back when I got him a year ago. I haven’t changed anything with the way that I care for him or feed him, so I don’t understand why this would be happening. If anyone knows what is going on and how to prevent further scale sinking, I would greatly appreciate your help! Thank you!
View attachment 68306

Hello from 2024! I recently acquired Aussie from I believe your family. According to my vet, the crater-like condition of his scales came from stuck shed and improper UVB levels. I've had him for a few months now and after extra vitamins, uvb treatment, wound care, and frequent baths, Aussie is doing very well and starting to shed off the old skin!

 

[AHBD]

Wow, this is a blast from the past, 2022. What type of wound care did the vet do ? That looks as if the scales have been dug out and the perietal eye has been damaged.

 

[Drache613]

Hello,

Wow, that is an old picture! I agree that sometimes the scales can change over time as they get older.
Poor nutrition can definitely cause some scale issues though.

Tracie