Do bearded dragons enjoy a refreshing drink of cold water on a hot day? Or will the temperature shock their system? This is a common question for beardie owners seeking the ideal drinking conditions for their pet reptile.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Bearded dragons can drink cold water but only in moderation. Room temperature or slightly warm water is ideal and best supports their digestion and hydration.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ideal water temperature for bearded dragons, look at the potential risks of cold water, and provide tips for keeping your dragon properly hydrated.
The Ideal Water Temperature Range for Bearded Dragons
Room Temperature is Best
The optimal water temperature for bearded dragons falls within a range similar to average room temperature. Most experts recommend offering water to pet beardies at 65-75°F (18-24°C). This lukewarm range mimics the natural conditions that wild beardies experience when drinking rainwater or morning dew in their native Australian habitat.
Providing water at room temperature ensures your bearded dragon can rehydrate comfortably without becoming chilled or overheated.
Room temperature water is ideal because it will not drastically alter your pet’s core body temperature when consumed. Sudden shifts up or down in body temperature can cause dangerous stress on a bearded dragon’s metabolism and immune system. Gradual changes are better tolerated.
Given that pet reptiles are cold-blooded, we want to avoid shocking their systems with overly hot or cold water.
Slightly Warm Water Supports Digestion
While room temperature is perfectly safe, some bearded dragon owners opt to serve water that is slightly warmer – up to 85°F (29°C). This stimulates digestion, especially after a meal. Warm water may provide added digestive benefits, as it helps break down food and absorb nutrients in the gut.
However, anything above 85°F poses a scalding hazard, so use caution and always check water temperature before offering it to your pet.
A digital thermometer is useful for gauging accurate water temperatures. Place the probe in a bowl of water to get a reading. Adjust with small amounts of hot or cold water until the desired temp is reached. Let the water sit for a few minutes before use to ensure it has stabilized.
Cold Water Can Cause Digestive Upset
It’s important to avoid offering chillier water below 65°F (18°C) to bearded dragons. Cold water may cause painful abdominal cramps, slow digestion, and constipation. Reptiles are simply not adapted to process water far below room temperature.
Frigid water can also lower a beardie’s core body temperature, leaving them vulnerable to illness.
Some signs that the water is too cold include a bearded dragon refusing to drink, gulping/gasping when drinking, or regurgitation after drinking. They may also show signs of lethargy or weakness from a dip in body temp.
If you observe any of these reactions, remove the cold water immediately and replace it with a nicely warmed bowl.
General tips for providing suitably temperate water:
- Use a thermometer to routinely check water temperature
- Change water at least daily, or more often if heavily soiled
- Wash and fully dry bowls between each use to prevent bacterial growth
- Position water away from heat lamps to avoid overheating
- In hot rooms, use a ceramic crock or insulated bowl to keep water cool
By following basic temperature guidelines and hygiene, you can offer your bearded dragon water that is refreshing and safe. Pay attention to their preferences, as some individuals may drink more readily at slightly lower or higher temps within the ideal range.
Overall, cool room temperature water provides the easiest and most natural hydration source for these gentle reptiles.
Are There Any Benefits to Giving a Bearded Dragon Cold Water?
Cold Water May Provide Temporary Relief on Hot Days
During the hottest days of summer, bearded dragons may benefit from a cooler drink of water to help them beat the heat. Reptiles like bearded dragons don’t sweat like humans – instead they pant to help regulate their body temperature. This can lead to dehydration on extremely hot days.
Providing a bit of chilled water can give them some temporary relief and replenish lost fluids.
Studies have shown that bearded dragons prefer water temperatures between 86-90°F. However, on occasions when temperatures sore above 100°F, a brief drink of cooler 70-80°F water can help bring their body temperature down. Just be sure not to provide icy cold water which could shock their system.
Colder Water May Be Tolerated if Introduced Slowly
While bearded dragons prefer warm water, they can adapt to slightly cooler temperatures under certain conditions. The key is to introduce the new temperature slowly over time.
Start by reducing the water temperature by just a few degrees, allowing several days for them to adjust. Then continue reducing it incrementally over a period of weeks. With this gradual acclimation, bearded dragons can learn to tolerate water temperatures closer to room temperature (68-75°F).
However, it’s still ideal to provide a warm basking area so they can self-regulate.
Younger dragons may adapt more readily than adults. But all bearded dragons should be closely monitored when making any changes to their environmental conditions, looking for signs of stress.
While cooler water can be tolerated, remember that these are desert reptiles that prefer warm conditions. Avoid drastic temperature drops that could put their health at risk.
Potential Risks of Drinking Cold Water for Bearded Dragons
Hypothermia and Shock
Drinking cold water can lower a bearded dragon’s core body temperature leading to hypothermia (abnormally low body temperature). Bearded dragons are cold-blooded reptiles that rely on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature.
Drinking water that is too cold can send them into hypothermic shock causing lethargy, weakness, and even death if not treated quickly. Providing water at room temperature or slightly warmer is best.
Slowed Digestion and Constipation
The digestion process requires warmth and moisture. Cold water lowers the temperature inside a bearded dragon’s stomach slowing digestion. This can lead to abdominal discomfort, constipation, and poor nutrient absorption from food. Dehydration may also occur when they avoid drinking enough cold water.
Offering water that is room temperature supports healthy digestion and hydration.
Stress on the Immune System
Exposure to cold weakens a bearded dragon’s immune system defenses making them prone to bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Their bodies divert energy toward warming up that would otherwise go toward fighting off pathogens.
Providing adequate heat from lighting and avoiding cold water reduces immune system stress. Any symptoms of lethargy, discharge, or swellings warrant an exam by an exotic veterinarian.
Tips for Keeping Your Bearded Dragon Hydrated
Provide Fresh, Clean Water Daily
It’s essential to give your bearded dragon access to fresh, clean water every day. Use a clean bowl and replace the water daily to prevent bacteria growth. The water should be close to room temperature. Check that your dragon is actually drinking, as some don’t recognize still water sources.
Use a Shallow Bowl They Can Easily Access
Choose a shallow water dish that your bearded dragon can easily climb into. The sides should be low enough that they can crawl in and out with no issues. The bowl should also be wide enough for them to soak their entire body if desired. Making access easy will promote regular drinking and bathing.
Mist Vegetables for Extra Fluid
Light misting of leafy greens and vegetables adds moisture that will be licked off while eating. Good veggies to mist include kale, dandelion greens, collard greens, green beans, squash, bell peppers and more. The tiny droplets cling to the leaves and vegetables, providing needed water content.
Give Them a Soak in Warm Water
Allow your bearded dragon to soak in shallow warm water up to a few times per week. Use a plastic container large enough for them to move about freely. The water should reach about halfway up their sides.
A 10-15 minute bath gives them a chance to rehydrate by drinking and absorbing water through their skin and cloacal vent.
When to Call the Vet About Your Bearded Dragon’s Hydration
Signs of Dehydration
Dehydration is a serious concern for bearded dragons. Some signs that your dragon may be dehydrated include:
- Sunken eyes
- Skin that lacks elasticity when gently pinched
- Wrinkled skin, especially around the neck
- Lethargy and weakness
- Not producing normal amounts of urine
Bearded dragons get most of their water from their food, but they also need access to a water dish to drink from. If your dragon is showing any of these dehydration symptoms, contact your exotic vet right away. Dehydration can quickly become life-threatening.
Concerns Over Diet or Environment
Your bearded dragon’s hydration levels can also be impacted by issues with their diet or environment. Here are some reasons to call the vet:
- You notice your dragon is not eating well or has a poor appetite.
- There are significant changes in their normal eating patterns.
- Their enclosure temperature is too high or too low.
- The tank humidity is outside the proper range (30-40%).
- Their UVB lighting is old and losing effectiveness.
Bearded dragons need the right temperatures, light, and humidity levels to properly digest their food and absorb water. Diet issues can also contribute to dehydration. Calling your exotic vet as soon as you notice any problems can help avoid a medical crisis.
Any Sudden Changes in Behavior
You know your bearded dragon’s normal behavior better than anyone. Watch for any unusual changes that could potentially indicate a hydration issue:
- Hiding more than normal and lethargic.
- Pressing their stomach on cool surfaces to lower body temperature.
- Holding mouth open for long periods of time.
- Refusing to eat or uninterested in food.
- Change in urination habits.
According to most bearded dragon care experts, a healthy dragon should be active, alert, and have an enthusiastic response to food. Any deviation from normal habits could signal an underlying health issue, including dehydration.
Don’t hesitate to call your exotic vet promptly if you notice your bearded dragon acting unusual in any way.
Conclusion
While bearded dragons can occasionally drink cooler water, it’s best to keep their water at room temperature or slightly warm. Cold water shocks their digestive system and provides little benefit. Focus on feeding hydrating foods, soaking regularly, and always providing fresh water at an ideal temp.
Monitor your beardie’s hydration levels and call your exotic vet if any concerns arise. With some simple precautions, you can keep your bearded dragon happy, healthy and hydrated!
