12/30/2025
Metabolic Bone Disease in Reptiles 🦎
What is Metabolic Bone Disease?
Metabolic Bone Disease is a serious condition seen in reptiles caused by long-term calcium deficiency, that weakens the bones and affects normal muscle and nerve function.
Common Signs of MBD in Reptiles:
• Bowed, swollen, or visibly crooked limbs
• Difficulty walking
• Lethargy or weakness
• Spinal kinks or deformities
• Poor grip strength
• Stunted growth
How You Can Prevent MBD:
• Proper UVB lighting
• Correct calcium supplementation
• Balanced diet
Prevention is always easier than treatment.
But how is it treated?
• Correcting UVB and diet immediately
• Calcium supplementation under veterinary guidance
Below are two photos for educational purposes, on the top is a bearded dragon that had MBD at one point in his life but was treated and is now living a happy healthy life, you can identify the condition by the kinks on his back and the rubbery jaw. On the bottom is a photo of a healthy bearded dragon who never had MBD, the differences are quite noticeable. Accurate information and proper husbandry are essential when discussing reptile health, and we encourage owners to rely on veterinary evidence and established care standards. We at Rockstar Pets are always happy to educate, answer questions, and perform free health checks for all reptiles!
