Source: Vetafarm.com.au
Symptoms
- twitching
- tremors
- seizures
- jerky movements
- palpable bumps along the bones
- swollen or soft bottom jaw
Cause
Calcium, vitamin D3, or phosphorous deficiency. Can also be a vitamin D3 overdose. Most often seen in bearded dragons with weak or no UVB exposure.
Treatment
Mild cases can be treated by proper diet. Dusting salad and insects with a high-quality calcium and D3 supplement is the most effective. The best one on the market right now is Rep-Cal Calcium with Vit.D. Make sure the greens you are using are nutritious and not calcium binding (refer to my list of appropriate fruits and vegetables).
Install a new mercury vapor UVB bulb. Whenever possible, expose your bearded dragon to unfiltered natural sunlight under supervision.
Severe MBD results in rubbery bones and eventually, death. If you suspect that your dragon has MBD, get him/her to the vet as soon as possible.