Maggot/worm in poo

[Aliceandgus]

Hi everyone
I’ve had my bearded dragon just a little over a week. He is about 7 weeks old. He did a poo this morning which was not normal colour - it was quite orange - and there was a small maggot or worm clearly moving around. I’m worried this is parasites?
I’ve been feeding him crickets 3 times a day and leave fresh kale and rocket in his dish to graze on - although he barely eats any of that. His appetite for the crickets does seem to vary - sometimes he isn’t interested at all. The last couple of days his appetite definitely has seemed to trail off, although he has been shedding so an wondering if that might be why.
I haven’t noticed any major changes in his behaviour.
I am planning on taking him to the vet tomorrow but any advice in the mean time would be appreciated! Also, would I have to take a poo sample in order for parasites to be diagnosed? I only ask as the sample I managed to get is so so small I’m not sure if it’s useable.
Thanks guys!

 

[CooperDragon]

Parasites are usually quite small and hard to see without a microscope. Has he eaten any black soldier fly larvae recently? Sometimes they pass through undigested. If it continues, it's probably a good idea to have a sample checked. It doesn't usually have to be a large sample but it helps if it's relatively fresh.

 

[Aliceandgus]

Thanks for your reply. Not sure where the worm came from but relieved to say it seems as though it was a one off and he is back to normal :mrgreen: