How big should the basking spot be?

[bubbagumper6]

I've been trying to refine my temps, and I've got the correct temperature, but it's with a small halogen lamp and it only creates a hot spot of about a 2-3" diameter. So it's kind of a small spot, is that a problem?

 

[Hopefulresearch]

It all depends on how hot it is around the hot spot. You want the basking rock/platform to overall be 100-110 F give or take a little. My setup the hot spot is about 105F and the rest of the basking platform is above 100F.
To answer the size of the rock/platform should be in my opinion at least as big as the beardies body.

 

[spurlee01]

That sounds absolutely fine!

 

[bubbagumper6]

Yeah, I've since changed it a little bit. I have a larger halogen flood light on a dimmer for the main basing spot ~106*, then another smaller halogen that creates another spot that's around 100*, these are both shining on the main part of his log so he has a nice gradient so he can choose where to bask

 

[Hopefulresearch]

Great! Your beardie will appreciate it!

 

[bubbagumper6]

Yeah he seems pretty happy today, eating a lot more. But I am a tad worried because he hasn't pooped in a few days...everything still seems fine, he's still eating good, and I gave him a good soak today. He doesn't normally poop everyday, usually every 2-3 days (giant mounds) but I think it's been a good 5-6 days now...

 

[Hopefulresearch]

Try some meat baby food. You also should talk to Barbara (fresnowitte) I think she uses yogurt or something but talk to her first. Don't know why I think she used it but I think I can remember her recommending it to someone. What I can recommend is keep up warm bathes. When in the bath you can massage its belly and vent area.

 

[spurlee01]

For poop problems you can try a mixture of squash (larger part) and chicken (smaller part) babyfood with a drop of olive oil. You can also use pumpkin with a drop of olive oil. Soy (beardies can't digest dairy) yogurt is more for stomach upset.

 

[Hopefulresearch]

Oh, I knew someone fed yogurt though! So maybe I get half points? lol

 

[bubbagumper6]

I may try the pumpkin if he doesn't poop soon...just some regular canned pumpkin with a drop of olive oil? I'm not sure if I have any olive oil...I only have Canola oil, probably not the same thing right?

 

[spurlee01]

I don't know if canola oil would work or not. You could try just the pumpkin. I use the canned kind, just make sure there's no sugar or spices added.