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Hi I have a bearded dragon who is 14 and roughly 16 inches long lately he has been making a kind of cough/hiccup noise and opens his mouth very wide almost as if he is having trouble breathing. I am not shrue how to go about helping him recover. Thanks!

Hi I have a bearded dragon who is 14 and roughly 16 inches long lately he has been making a kind of cough/hiccup noise and opens his mouth very wide almost as if he is having trouble breathing. I am not shrue how to go about helping him recover. Thanks!

Updated On December 7th, 2017

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

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He should be examined by your veterinarian or an experienced herp veterinarian. The symptoms described may indicate a respiratory infection. The vet can confirm or rule out this possibility then dispense antibiotics if necessary. In the meantime, increase ambient temperature by about 5-10 degrees F to aid in recovery. Make sure he stays hydrated and continues to eat normally.

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