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My bearded dragon has a rectal plug and blocked pores. What's wrong?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Reptile | Bearded Dragon | Male
Hi, my (around) 8-10 y/o bearded dragon has what I think to be a seminal plug coming out of his rectum but it finding it difficult to push it out (he tried a couple of times after he pooped in the bath). It is brown with white and he's developed blocked femoral pores as well, I've only had him for about 6 or 7 months after my cousin passed him down to me. thank you
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Todd Cecil
Veterinarian
Published on October 14th, 2018
Hemipenal plugs are common findings in male lizards (and some snakes). Often it is associated with husbandry concerns. Check the thermometer to assure Russell is housed in his POTZ (Preferred Optimal Temperature Zone) of 95-105 in the warm area during the day. Don't let the environmental temperature drop too low during the night. Continue to provide warm water soaks 2-3 times daily, for 5-10 minutes. Don't let the bath water get too cold.
The femoral pores and hemipenal glands product an oil-like product than when becomes cold, turns to more of a wax, thereby clogging up the pores and hemipenes.
There is a little concern about the color being brown and white. That is usually not a reflection of pore excretions but of feces and urates, possibly indicating constipation or an intestinal blockage. At this age, the diet should consist mostly of vegetables and minimal insects. Eating too much insects at one sitting or ingesting foreign bodies (substrate, etc.) can lead to constipation also.
If Russell continues to strain and the warm water soaks don't rectify the problem, seek a veterinarian to assist.
Good luck.
The femoral pores and hemipenal glands product an oil-like product than when becomes cold, turns to more of a wax, thereby clogging up the pores and hemipenes.
There is a little concern about the color being brown and white. That is usually not a reflection of pore excretions but of feces and urates, possibly indicating constipation or an intestinal blockage. At this age, the diet should consist mostly of vegetables and minimal insects. Eating too much insects at one sitting or ingesting foreign bodies (substrate, etc.) can lead to constipation also.
If Russell continues to strain and the warm water soaks don't rectify the problem, seek a veterinarian to assist.
Good luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful