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My bearded dragon ate substrate pellets. Why are his lips white/gray?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My bearded dragon ate a couple substrate pellets accidentally as he was trying to eat food. Only the next day did I notice around his lips look white/gray. Is this a side effect? Are the pellets safe to eat?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Angel Alvarado, LVT

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on September 25th, 2017

One or two pellets will likely pass through uneventfully. Monitor for lethargy, loose droppings or loss of appetite. You can soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte. During the soak, gently massage his abdomen from front to back to stimulate defecation.
Consider using slate, reptile carpeting or plain paper towels as a substrate in the future to prevent accidental ingestion.
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