My bearded dragon's eye is crusty and shut. What's the problem?

Check the humidity level. For beardies, it should range between 30 and 40%. Too high or too low can predispose Jank to infection or shedding complications. If a 20-30 minute warm compress doesn't help, have him examined by your veterinarian or experienced herp vet. A physical exam may diagnose or rule out abscess/infection or tumor. In either case, you'll need a vet to dispense medication or to pursue additional diagnostics (blood work, biopsy, aspirate, etc).

Thank you for reaching out about Charizard, and for including photos - they are very helpful. I wanted to verify that this is the same eye? The reason I ask is that the second photo looks like one is of the right eye and one is of the left eye (unless you inverted the image when posting). Based on the darker appearance of the material and the sagging of the area, it makes me suspicious that there may be an issue with some retained shed skin, or there could be an issue with the eyelids themselves. This should be evaluated by a veterinarian as they will be able to look at the area with some magnification, which may help to determine exactly what the problem is in the area. Due to the decrease in appetite, they can also provide a husbandry evaluation. I would use caution with trying to treat this at home, as due to Charizard's small size, it would be easy to accidentally traumatize the eye. I hope this gives you a place to start, and that Charizard feels better soon!

Thanks for reaching out about Lucas and including photos. A lesion is not noted on the pictures but try providing a warm water soak for 5-10 minutes to possibly dislodge any ocular foreign bodies. If the problem persists, a veterinary visit is recommended to assess for possible corneal trauma, ocular foreign body, indications of infections and others. Good luck.

Thanks for reaching out about Chipp and including photos. There is definately something wrong with the eye and a veterinary visit is recommended. It appears as if the eye is possible deflated, possibly due to a rupture. This could be painful and become infected. A veterinary visit is highly recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan. Remove any substrate in the enclosure that can stick or contaminate the eye. Clean cloths or Repti-carpet work well. Good luck.

Monitor for swelling, discharge or squinting/keeping it closed. These could be symptoms of infection or injury. If you can include a clear picture in her profile or posted with another question, we may be able to better ascertain if an exam with your veterinarian is indicated.

By your description, Draco may have an eye injury or infection. This would need to be confirmed by your veterinarian after an exam. Submit a stool sample to diagnose intestinal parasites or bacterial overgrowth. Confirm proper temps, since low temps can affect digestion in reptiles.

Although a picture of it would help to determine the underlying cause more specifically, That is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!