Why Do Bearded Dragons Close One Eye And When Should You Worry

Bearded dragons are expressive reptiles, and their subtle behaviors often spark concern among owners. One such behavior—closing one eye while the other remains open—is common but can be confusing. While it’s usually harmless, there are situations where it signals an underlying health issue. Understanding the difference between normal behavior and a red flag is essential for responsible pet ownership.

This guide breaks down the reasons behind this habit, highlights when it’s nothing to worry about, and outlines specific symptoms that demand veterinary attention. Whether your dragon does this occasionally or frequently, you’ll gain clarity on what’s happening and how to respond appropriately.

Common Reasons Bearded Dragons Close One Eye

Most of the time, a bearded dragon closing one eye is completely normal. These reptiles have unique ways of interacting with their environment, and some behaviors stem from instinct, comfort, or environmental factors.

• Adjusting to Light: Bearded dragons are diurnal and rely heavily on light cycles. If one side of their enclosure receives more intense lighting or direct sunlight, they may partially close one eye to reduce glare.
• Relaxation or Half-Sleeping: Like humans who rest one eye at a time during light naps, bearded dragons may close one eye while remaining alert. This is especially common when basking or lounging in a secure spot.
• Focusing on Objects: They may squint or close one eye to better focus on something in their line of sight, similar to how humans might close one eye when aiming.
• Asymmetrical Basking Posture: When positioned near a heat lamp, one side of the face may get hotter, prompting the dragon to tilt its head or close one eye to avoid overheating the sensitive ocular tissue.

Tip: Observe your bearded dragon at different times of day. If the behavior only happens during basking or in bright light and resolves quickly, it’s likely not a concern.

When Closing One Eye Indicates a Health Problem

While occasional single-eye closure is normal, persistent or repeated behavior—especially if accompanied by physical changes—can point to medical issues. The eyes of bearded dragons are delicate and susceptible to infections, injuries, and systemic conditions.

Signs That Warrant Concern

If your bearded dragon consistently closes one eye and shows any of the following symptoms, it may indicate an underlying problem:

• Swelling around the eye
• Discharge (pus, mucus, or crust)
• Cloudiness or opacity in the eye
• Frequent rubbing of the eye against surfaces
• Lack of appetite or lethargy
• The eye remaining shut for hours or days

These signs suggest possible infection, injury, or metabolic bone disease (MBD), which affects calcium absorption and can lead to nerve dysfunction impacting eye movement.

“Persistent unilateral eye closure in bearded dragons should never be ignored. It’s one of the earliest behavioral cues of ocular distress or systemic illness.” — Dr. Rachel Nguyen, Exotic Animal Veterinarian

Potential Causes and Their Treatments

Understanding the root cause is key to effective treatment. Below are the most common medical reasons for prolonged or abnormal eye closure in bearded dragons.

1. Eye Infections (Conjunctivitis or Abscesses)

Bacterial or fungal infections can develop from unclean enclosures, foreign debris, or scratches. Symptoms include swelling, discharge, and reluctance to open the affected eye.

Treatment typically involves topical antibiotics prescribed by a vet. Self-treatment with over-the-counter drops is not recommended, as improper use can worsen the condition.

2. Foreign Object or Irritation

Dust, substrate particles (like sand), or even food fragments can lodge under the eyelid. Your dragon may close the eye to protect it from further irritation.

Gently rinsing the eye with sterile saline solution may help, but if the object doesn’t dislodge easily, professional removal is necessary to prevent corneal damage.

3. Vitamin A Deficiency or Hypervitaminosis

Both too little and too much vitamin A can affect eye health. Deficiency leads to dry eyes and poor epithelial integrity, while excess causes swelling and toxicity.

A balanced diet with gut-loaded insects and dark leafy greens usually prevents these issues. Supplementation should only be done under veterinary guidance.

4. Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD)

MBD results from inadequate UVB exposure or calcium imbalance. It weakens bones and nerves, potentially affecting facial muscles and eye function.

In advanced cases, dragons may exhibit tremors, jaw softening (\"rubber jaw\"), and neurological symptoms like uneven eye control.

5. Dehydration

Dehydrated dragons often have sunken eyes, which may appear partially closed. The skin loses elasticity, and urates become chalky white.

Rehydration through misting, shallow baths, and proper hydration in diet (e.g., water-rich veggies like cucumber) can resolve mild cases.

Do’s and Don’ts: Eye Care Checklist

Checklist: Use this quick reference to assess and act responsibly.

1. Do monitor the frequency and duration of one-eye closure.
2. Do check enclosure humidity and temperature gradients.
3. Do ensure UVB lighting is functional and replaced every 6–12 months.
4. Do offer a balanced diet with calcium and vitamin supplements as needed.
5. Don’t use dusty substrates like sand or crushed walnut.
6. Don’t apply human eye drops without veterinary approval.
7. Don’t ignore persistent symptoms lasting more than 24–48 hours.

Environmental Factors That Influence Eye Behavior

Your bearded dragon’s habitat plays a major role in eye health. Even minor imbalances can lead to discomfort that manifests as eye closure.

Factor	Optimal Range	Potential Eye Impact
UVB Lighting	10–12% output bulb, 10–12 inches from basking zone	Poor UVB → Vitamin D3 deficiency → weakened immune system and eye issues
Basking Temperature	95–110°F (35–43°C)	Too hot → thermal stress → eye squinting or closure
Ambient Humidity	30–40%	Too low → dry eyes; Too high → bacterial/fungal growth
Substrate Type	Non-particulate (tile, reptile carpet)	Dusty substrates → eye irritation and abrasions

Maintaining proper environmental parameters reduces stress and supports overall health, minimizing the risk of both behavioral and medical eye issues.

Real-Life Example: Luna the Bearded Dragon

Luna, a two-year-old female bearded dragon, began closing her right eye regularly during basking. Her owner initially dismissed it as relaxation, but after three days of persistent closure and visible puffiness, she consulted a reptile vet.

Upon examination, Luna was diagnosed with a mild bacterial conjunctivitis caused by contaminated substrate dust. The vet prescribed a topical antibiotic ointment and recommended switching from loose sand to ceramic tile flooring. Within a week of treatment and improved husbandry, Luna’s eye returned to normal.

This case underscores the importance of timely intervention—even seemingly minor symptoms can escalate if left unchecked.

Step-by-Step: What to Do If Your Bearded Dragon Closes One Eye

If you notice this behavior, follow this logical sequence to determine whether action is needed:

1. Observe Duration and Context: Is it momentary or ongoing? Does it happen only in bright light?
2. Inspect the Eye: Look for swelling, discharge, cloudiness, or foreign objects.
3. Check Enclosure Conditions: Verify temperature, humidity, UVB bulb age, and substrate cleanliness.
4. Assess Overall Health: Monitor appetite, activity level, and bowel movements.
5. Try Gentle Rinsing: Use sterile saline to flush the eye if debris is suspected.
6. Consult a Vet: If the eye remains closed beyond 24–48 hours or shows signs of infection, schedule an appointment with an exotic animal veterinarian.

Early diagnosis significantly improves recovery outcomes, especially for infections or nutritional deficiencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal for my bearded dragon to close one eye while basking?

Yes, it’s common for bearded dragons to close one eye during basking due to heat or light intensity on one side of the face. As long as the eye opens normally afterward and there are no physical symptoms, it’s considered normal behavior.

Can dehydration cause my bearded dragon to close one eye?

Indirectly, yes. Dehydration can lead to sunken eyes, which may appear partially closed. Additionally, dry ocular surfaces can cause discomfort, prompting the dragon to keep the eye shut. Ensuring proper hydration through misting, baths, and moisture-rich foods helps prevent this.

How can I prevent eye problems in my bearded dragon?

Maintain a clean enclosure with safe, non-dusty substrate; provide proper UVB lighting and temperature gradients; feed a nutritionally balanced diet; and perform weekly health checks. Regular observation allows early detection of issues before they become serious.

Conclusion: Stay Observant, Act Responsibly

Bearded dragons closing one eye isn’t inherently alarming—but discernment is crucial. Most instances are benign, rooted in natural behavior or environmental adaptation. However, persistent closure, especially with physical symptoms, demands prompt attention.

As a responsible owner, your vigilance ensures your pet’s long-term well-being. By understanding the nuances of this behavior, maintaining optimal habitat conditions, and knowing when to seek professional help, you create a safer, healthier life for your scaly companion.

💬 Have you noticed your bearded dragon closing one eye? Share your experience or questions in the comments—your story could help another owner recognize a sign early!