Geckos are hardy and fascinating reptiles, but like all animals, they can fall ill. Since they often hide symptoms until their condition worsens, early detection is critical. As a responsible gecko owner, learning the warning signs of illness can make all the difference between recovery and tragedy.
In this post, we’ll break down 10 common signs your gecko might be sick, what they mean, and what actions you should take.
1. 💤 Lethargy or Unusual Stillness
What to look for:
Your gecko is not moving much, not climbing, and seems disinterested in its surroundings.
What it might mean:
Lethargy can indicate stress, impaction, internal parasites, or issues with temperature and lighting.
What to do:
Check the habitat’s temperature and humidity. If they’re normal, consider a vet visit.
2. 🍽️ Loss of Appetite
What to look for:
Refusing food for several days or more, especially favorite insects or gecko diet.
What it might mean:
Could be caused by brumation (seasonal slowdown), illness, parasites, or stress.
What to do:
Rule out seasonal behavior. If appetite doesn’t return in 7–10 days, consult a reptile vet.
3. 💩 Abnormal Droppings
What to look for:
Runny, watery, discolored, or foul-smelling feces—or no feces at all.
What it might mean:
Potential signs of digestive upset, parasites, or impaction.
What to do:
Isolate the gecko if it’s housed with others and collect a fecal sample for vet testing.
4. 🦴 Visible Weight Loss or Thin Tail
What to look for:
A noticeable drop in body mass, visible bones, or a tail that looks skinny or shrunken.
What it might mean:
Malnutrition, internal parasites, or chronic disease.
What to do:
Weigh your gecko regularly. If weight loss is persistent, seek veterinary care and evaluate the diet.
5. 🌫️ Cloudy, Sunken, or Swollen Eyes
What to look for:
Eyes appear dull, stuck shut, sunken, or bulging.
What it might mean:
Dehydration, vitamin deficiency, retained shed, or infection.
What to do:
Increase humidity, offer a moist hide, and consult a vet if there’s no improvement.
6. 🧊 Difficulty Shedding
What to look for:
Dry skin patches that don’t come off, especially on toes, eyes, or tail.
What it might mean:
Humidity levels are too low, or the gecko has a skin infection.
What to do:
Add a humid hide, mist more frequently, and help remove stuck shed gently with a moist cotton swab if necessary.
7. 😮 Mouth Rot or Swelling Around the Jaw
What to look for:
Discoloration, swelling, pus, or a foul smell coming from the mouth.
What it might mean:
Mouth rot (stomatitis), often due to poor hygiene or a weakened immune system.
What to do:
This is a veterinary emergency. Immediate treatment is required.
8. 🐌 Dragging Limbs or Trouble Moving
What to look for:
Limping, dragging of legs or tail, or difficulty climbing.
What it might mean:
Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), neurological issues, or injury.
What to do:
Provide calcium with vitamin D3 and consult a reptile vet right away.
9. 💧 Dehydration
What to look for:
Wrinkled or dry skin, sunken eyes, or lethargy.
What it might mean:
Lack of access to water or insufficient humidity.
What to do:
Increase misting, offer water drops on a leaf or enclosure wall, and monitor improvements.
10. 🦠 Sudden Behavioral Changes
What to look for:
Increased aggression, hiding all day, excessive glass surfing, or panicked movements.
What it might mean:
Environmental stress, illness, or pain.
What to do:
Review enclosure conditions and handling habits. If behavior persists, a vet check is advised.
✅ When to See a Vet
You should always contact a reptile vet if:
- Symptoms last more than a few days
- There’s rapid or significant weight loss
- Your gecko has stopped eating and is losing energy
- You see signs of infection, swelling, or bleeding
Early treatment can save your gecko’s life.
📝 Final Thoughts
Owning a gecko is more than just enjoying their quirky charm—it means being vigilant and proactive about their health. By recognizing these signs early and responding quickly, you’re giving your gecko the best chance at a long, healthy life.
If you ever feel unsure, trust your instincts and reach out to a reptile veterinarian. Better safe than sorry!