Many pet owners ask themselves when caring for bearded dragons. While it may seem simple, the answer is complicated. Bearded dragons have a unique way of eliminating waste that differs from most other animals.
Unlike humans and other animals that excrete liquid urine, bearded dragons produce waste as a solid white block called urate. This urate combines uric acid, calcium, and other waste products. While it may seem strange, this is a perfectly normal process for bearded dragons and is nothing to be concerned about.
Understanding how bearded dragons eliminate waste is important to care for these unique pets. In this article, we will explore the topic in more detail and provide all the information you need about bearded dragon pee.
Do Bearded Dragons Pee?
The answer is yes, but not in the same way as most other animals. They produce waste from their kidneys called uric acid, which is expelled from their bodies as solid white or yellow pellets.
How Often Do They Pee?
The frequency at which bearded dragons pee can vary depending on several factors, including their age, diet, and overall health.
On average, you can expect your bearded dragon to pee once or twice a day. However, some may go long periods without peeing, while others may go more frequently.
The Anatomy of Bearded Dragons
To understand how bearded dragons pee, it’s crucial to have a basic understanding of their anatomy. Like all reptiles, bearded dragons have a cloaca, a single opening that serves as the exit point for their digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
The cloaca is located at the base of the tail and is covered by two flaps of skin called the cloacal lips. When bearded dragons need to pee, the uric acid waste is expelled from the cloaca in the form of solid pellets.
The Urinary System of Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons have a unique urinary system that differs from most other animals. Instead of producing liquid urine, they produce uric acid, a solid waste product less toxic than liquid urine. The uric acid is produced by the kidneys and is transported to the cloaca via the ureters. Once it reaches the cloaca, it and feces are expelled from the body. In conclusion, while bearded dragons do not pee in the same way that humans or other animals do, they do produce waste from their kidneys in the form of uric acid pellets. The frequency at which they pee can vary, but on average, you can expect your bearded dragon to pee once or twice a day. Understanding bearded dragons’ anatomy and urinary system can help you better care for these fascinating creatures.
How Do Bearded Dragons Pee?
Normal Urination in Bearded Dragons
Bearded dragons do not have liquid pee like humans or other animals, and instead, they produce waste from their kidneys called uric acid. This uric acid is then excreted as a solid white substance often referred to as “beardie urate.”
Normal urination in bearded dragons is a slow and steady process that occurs several times daily. The urate is passed out through the cloaca, a typical opening for the digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems.
It is important to note that bearded dragons have a high tolerance for uric acid, which means they can go for extended periods without urinating. However, monitoring their urination habits to ensure they are healthy and not experiencing any issues is still essential.
Abnormal Urination in Bearded Dragons
Abnormal urination in bearded dragons can be a sign of health issues. Suppose you notice that your bearded dragon is not urinating regularly or producing an abnormal amount of urine. In that case, taking them to a veterinarian as soon as possible is vital.
Some common causes of abnormal urination in bearded dragons include kidney disease, dehydration, and urinary tract infections. These issues can be severe and require prompt treatment to prevent further complications.
Also, notice that your bearded dragon produces liquid urine instead of solid urate. It could indicate a more serious issue, such as liver disease or organ failure. You must seek veterinary care immediately if your bearded dragon has abnormal urination habits.
Conclusion
Based on the information gathered from various sources, it is safe to say that bearded dragons do pee, but not in the traditional sense like other animals.
Bearded dragons excrete waste from their cloaca, which includes urates, a concentrated solid form of uric acid. This is often mistaken for feces, but it is not. Bearded dragons can go several days without peeing, and the frequency of urination can vary depending on various factors such as age, diet, and overall health.
Monitoring your bearded dragon’s urination habits and ensuring they drink enough water is important. Dehydration can cause health problems and affect their ability to excrete waste properly. Providing a clean and spacious enclosure with proper lighting and temperature is also crucial for their well-being.
If you are a new bearded dragon owner, it is recommended to do thorough research and consult with a veterinarian who specializes in reptile care. You can provide the best possible care for your beloved pet by learning about their unique behaviors and needs.
